Bulgarian caretaker Minister of Energy Vladimir Malinov met with Manuela Naessl, the head of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) for Bulgaria, according to a press release from the Ministry of Energy. The meeting focused on the ongoing collaboration between Bulgaria and the EBRD, which aims to support the creation of a stable and sustainable electricity system in the country.
Malinov highlighted the importance of this cooperation, especially in the context of the current geopolitical challenges and fluctuating energy prices. He pointed out that the partnership with the EBRD is essential for achieving energy security and enhancing the predictability of the energy sector.
During the meeting, both officials discussed several opportunities for continued collaboration, particularly in funding key energy projects in Bulgaria. These initiatives include investments in energy storage infrastructure, the expansion of the transmission network, and the development of hydrogen technology.
Additionally, Malinov and Naessl signed a supplementary agreement that will provide technical assistance for the RESTORE national renewable electricity storage infrastructure project. This project is funded through Bulgaria’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan. The Minister emphasized that developing a national electricity storage system would significantly improve the security and stability of Bulgaria’s electricity grid, facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, and contribute to the country’s decarbonization objectives.
