Why is the energy sector important in Bulgaria?

Bulgaria’s power sector is diverse and well developed, with universal access to the grid and numerous cross-border connections in neighboring countries. A key driver of the Bulgarian economy, the energy sector is strongly affected by geopolitical, economic, and regulatory pressures.

What is the main source of electricity in Bulgaria in 2022?

Coal energy was the main source of electricity production in Bulgaria in 2022. It accounted for over 45 percent of total electricity generation. Nuclear energy ranked second, making up 35 percent of total production.

What will Bulgaria's energy system operator do in 2024?

By the end of 2024, Bulgaria’s Electricity System Operator (ESO) will finalize its investment program aiming to ensure the grid connection of new power plants with a total installed capacity of 4,500 MW, primarily renewables. ESO, the country’s transmission system operator, has invested more than EUR 25 million in digitalization of the grid.

How big is Bulgaria's photovoltaic capacity?

In the last three years, Bulgaria’s photovoltaic installed capacity practically doubled, to 2.2 GW, with another 700 MW expected to become operational in 2023. With this pace, Bulgaria will surpass its 2030 National Energy and Climate Plan target for photovoltaic installations nearly seven years early.

Does Bulgaria have a hydro power plant?

In Bulgaria, the National Electric Company (NEK) owns 15 conventional hydro and pumped-storage plants. Hydropower’s importance is not limited to the production of energy because it plays a key role in greenhouse gas emissions reduction. Bulgaria remains the most energy-intensive economy in the EU by a wide margin.

What is the main energy source in Bulgaria?

The main local energy source in Bulgaria is lignite coal. Another local energy source is nuclear energy, which significantly contributes to energy independence. In 2022, the share of nuclear energy production is 32.6% of total electricity production in Bulgaria. The share is expected to remain above 40% until 2030.