Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant

As a consequence of the recent cold spell gripping Bulgaria, the nation experienced a notable shift in its energy dynamics, emerging as a net importer of electricity on January 9. Despite possessing ample capacity, Bulgaria's electricity production struggles to compete in the market, leading to increased reliance on neighboring countries.

In a tumultuous parliamentary session marked by opposition discord, lawmakers aligned with the government advanced two pivotal energy-related changes in their initial reading. Despite disruptions, the vote successfully repealed the supplementary fee for transporting Russian gas through Bulgaria.

In a rapid ten-minute session, lawmakers backing Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov swiftly endorsed a proposal outlining the schedule for constructing units 7 and 8 at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) using American technology.

Energy Minister Rumen Radev affirmed Ukraine's ongoing interest in acquiring equipment for Bulgaria's Belene Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) during an inspection of Bulgaria's gas link construction with Serbia. Radev stated that Ukraine remains eager to procure the equipment and is willing to meet Bulgaria's proposed price.

"Two problems stand in our way - the lack of rule of law and sentiments towards our eastern neighbors". This was commented by Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov during the opening of the Sofia Economic Forum.

According to him, Bulgaria must work for the development of its economy, even though it is a small country.

The final signing of an engineering contract with the American company "Westinghouse" for the construction of two units at the site of the Kozloduy NPP is pending. This was announced by the acting Deputy Minister of Energy Elenko Bozhkov:

Bulgaria will import parts and materials from Russia to ensure the safe operation of the Kozloduy NPP. At today's meeting, the government approved a derogation from the sanctions of the European Union, which prohibit the import of certain parts and materials from Russia because of the war in Ukraine.

"I replaced the head of management in my first months as minister because of intelligence reports about the leadership's potential ties to Russia and corruption schemes." This was announced by the Acting Minister of Energy on bTV.

"They mentioned the name of Alexander Nikolov, whom I replaced. He is now on the 'Magnitsky' list."

The caretaker government is preparing a request for a derogation if the European Union imposes sanctions against Russian nuclear energy, Deputy Minister of Energy Elenko Bozhkov told BNT.

"The gas for 2023 is secured, the expectations are for stabilization of the prices in the coming winter months", Deputy Minister of Energy Elenko Bozhkov said on BNT.

According to him, the warmer winter means less gas used from the gas storage in Chiren.