Eng. Ivan Zhelyazkov: Only investments in diagnostics and prevention in the power grid will prevent new power outages
The two main reasons for the mass accidents are the lack of investments in diagnostics and prevention, as well as the irresponsible attitude of the network operators and the regulatory authority towards the operation of energy facilities. This is stated by Dr. Eng. Ivan Zhelyazkov, member of the Management Board of the Scientific and Technical Union of Power Engineers in Bulgaria and Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Central Energy Repair Base (CERB), regarding the accidents with the supply of electricity in a number of settlements.
Back in the spring, the network operators were supposed to prepare a plan for how they would work in autumn-winter conditions, what emergency repair groups they would have at their disposal, and to familiarize the regulatory authorities with this plan.
"In many places in Bulgaria there are broken poles. For years they have been standing in the fields and rusting. We have repeatedly appealed to the network operators to conduct a test and analysis of the residual resource of the iron-lattice poles. To subject them to tests that would show how long they can be operated and if they have a little "life" left, to be replaced with new ones in a timely manner," explains Dr. Eng. Ivan Zhelyazkov. "However, no one is doing anything about the issue. This is irresponsibility on the part of the regulator towards the national energy sector and our energy security," he adds.
According to the energy expert, the actions currently being taken are temporary and will not solve the problem. Accidents will continue to occur. Therefore, it is imperative to take four measures. First, to conduct a risk assessment. Second, to examine the entire residual resource of the iron-lattice poles. Third, to increase the number of mobile emergency repair groups in winter conditions. And fourth, to have more control and responsibility on the part of the Energy Regulatory Commission, the Ministry of Energy and the Energy Commission of the National Assembly.
Dr. Eng. Ivan Zhelyazkov has many years of management experience in the energy sector. He was Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Electric Company (NEC) EAD and a member of the Board of Directors of the Maritsa East 2 TPP EAD. He is a Doctor of Economics, with a PhD in "Energy Security", a Master's degree in Electrical Power Engineering from the Technical University and a Master's degree in International Economic Relations from the UNWE. He specializes in “Banks and Bank Management” at the Institute for Postgraduate Qualification at the University of National and World Economy. Since 2014, he has been Chairman of the Board of Directors of “Contact Elements” AD, member of the Board of Directors of “CERB” EAD and manager of CERB “Solar”. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Scientific and Technical Union of Power Engineers in Bulgaria (STUPE).