Temenuzhka Petkova: Our goal is to use different technology for Unit VII of Kozloduy NPP

No electricity consumer will be cut off from electricity if he does not sign a contract with an energy supplier. This was said by the Minister of Energy Temenujka Petkova to Darik Radio. She explained that non-household consumers will continue to receive electricity even if they do not take measures to sign a contract with an energy supplier. "If such a contract is not concluded within the statutory period, it will receive electricity from the so-called supplier of last resort, but at a higher price,” said Minister Temenuzhka Petkova, commenting on the liberalization of the electricity market.

Minister Petkova said that household consumers can stay on the regulated market, but until 2025. Regarding the impact of the pandemic on energy, she said: "The pandemic is also affecting energy, but measures taken since March have been implemented and the energy system is working normally."

Temenuzhka Petkova said there are no problems in big energy companies, such as the Kozloduy NPP. She also reviewed the opportunities for the Bulgarian energy sector in connection with the increased requirements for greenhouse gas emissions.

As for Unit 7 of Kozloduy NPP, we have a site where new capacity can be built. There are also three technologies provided for this unit - two Russian and one American. The goal is for Unit 7 of Kozloduy to have a different technology ", stressed Minister Petkova.

"4,000 megawatts will be decommissioned by 2050, these are coal-fired power plants and they need to be replaced with other capacities," she added.

She also commented on the operation of coal-fired power plants in the country. According to her, the topic should be carefully considered, analyzed and only then decisions should be made. Until 2030, Bulgaria will use these facilities, Petkova stressed.

Regarding the future, Minister Petkova explained that the procedure under the Belene NPP is continuing, there are 5 companies that have stated that they will submit a binding offer and added that it is not clear what the final of this procedure will be.