Bulgarian caretaker Minister of Energy, Vladimir Malinov, announced that units 3 and 4 of the ContourGlobal Maritsa East 3 thermal power plant will restart operations in the first quarter of 2025. This decision comes as part of a plan for the Bulgarian state, through the National Electricity Company (NEK) or another subsidiary of Bulgarian Energy Holding (BEH), to increase its ownership and operational control over these units starting in July 2025.
Minister Malinov stated that NEK and the majority shareholder of the power plant have agreed to work together on a long-term development roadmap. He emphasized that both units are in excellent technical condition and will play a crucial role in ensuring the stability of Bulgaria’s electricity grid, reducing the country’s reliance on electricity imports.
Vassil Shtonov, the CEO of TPP Maritsa East 3, also highlighted that preparations would begin this week to rehire workers who had been laid off when the plant ceased operations in late February 2024. He noted that at least 150 employees would need to be rehired for the units to resume full operations.
The thermal power plant ceased operations after its electricity supply contract with NEK expired in late February. By May 2024, 160 workers had been laid off. Currently, NEK holds a 27% stake in TPP Maritsa East 3.
