The Independent Bulgarian Energy Exchange (IBEX) is commemorating the 10th anniversary of its day-ahead market, which has been pivotal in establishing a structured and transparent electricity trading environment in Bulgaria. This milestone marks a significant evolution in the country’s power market, laying the groundwork for market-based trading that is both publicly traceable and competitive.
IBEX CEO Dian Boev remarked on the importance of this anniversary, noting that the day-ahead market has become an essential platform for delivering reliable price signals while ensuring market liquidity. He pointed out that over the past decade, IBEX has continuously refined its rules, products, and trading infrastructure to adapt to the changing needs of participants within the energy sector.
The growth trajectory of the day-ahead market is evident through increased participation and trading volumes. Currently, there are 150 active market participants, a substantial rise from just 21 at the start of January 2016. Additionally, traded volumes have surged from 4,369.2 MWh for delivery on January 20, 2016, to an anticipated 104,294.85 MWh for delivery on January 20, 2026—a remarkable increase by a factor of 24.
From 2016 to 2025, the total traded volume on this segment is projected to reach approximately 175.6 TWh, representing around two-thirds of all power exchange trading activities on IBEX. This robust performance underscores the critical role that the day-ahead market plays in Bulgaria’s electricity landscape and highlights IBEX’s ongoing dedication to fostering transparent and competitive trading practices.
