Bulgarian Energy Regulator: The Price of Heat remains the Same for Now, It might Change from January 1

"For now, the price of thermal energy set on July 1 remains unchanged, but if there is a dramatic change in the price of components and natural gas, it is possible to get it updated on January 1 next year."

This is what Ivan Ivanov, the new-old chairman of the Commission for Energy and Water Regulation (EWRC), said today to BNT. He took office again after the Constitutional Court declared that the election of Stanislav Todorov was illegal.

Today, Ivanov confirmed that EWRC will most likely approve the over 50% increase in the price of natural gas for August requested by Bulgargaz. According to Ivanov, the energy sector both in our country and in the EU is experiencing extreme difficulties and the dominant fact is Russian aggression in Ukraine. However, he admitted that in relation to gas, EWRC does not have much power to influence.

"At a price of almost BGN 300 (EUR 153.38) /MWh, we are starting to look for a regulatory change that would guarantee the fulfillment of the functions of the public supplier Bulgargaz up to the regulated market - where the district heating and gas distribution companies are. For them, supplies must strictly be based on the principle of minimum expenses," he added.

He recalled that the heating plants use about 30% of the total consumption of natural gas in our country and that supplies have been confirmed for them.

According to him, Bulgargaz and the government should have started talks on signing a long-term contract for natural gas supplies as early as March 31, after the issuance of Vladimir Putin's decree on payments in rubles. He emphasized that the Komotini - Stara Zagora interconnector should be put into operation as soon as possible.

"Act 14 has been signed, acts 15...

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