How will the energy transition impact Bulgaria?

As a Just Transition country still reliant on coal-fired power production, with significant income inequality and widespread poverty, Bulgaria will feel the impact of the energy transition at multiple levels.

Does Bulgaria have a res plan?

In 2023, Bulgaria – which still bases much of its energy production on coal – was the only EU country that had not presented a clear action plan on how to make the transition. Despite EU warnings, more than a year later, progress has been made towards RES, but the situation in the Bulgarian energy sector retains many critical elements.

Why is Bulgaria promoting self-sustaining energy solutions?

Bulgaria is also pushing for small- and medium-sized businesses to adopt more self-sustaining energy solutions, including solar energy and battery storage, to reduce dependency on the grid during peak consumption times. Source: IRENA

What is Bulgaria's energy strategy?

Despite being a net electricity exporter, with major buyers like Romania, Greece, and North Macedonia, Bulgaria’s energy strategy remains fossil-fuel dependent. The 2019 National Energy and Climate Plan indicated a long-term reliance on coal and nuclear, with no immediate phase-out in sight. 4. Future prospects

Can biomass be used for heating and cooling in Bulgaria?

Here, the LTS does not discuss the issue of biomass use for heating and cooling, more precisely the envisaged consumption of traditional and sustainable biomass by 2050. Bulgaria currently has significant levels of traditional biomass use, primarily for individual heating in households not connected to the gas or district heating networks.

What is Bulgaria's energy policy?

In the early 2000s, Bulgaria’s energy policy was characterized by a delicate balancing act between European aspirations and deep-rooted ties to Russia. Due to its strategic location in Southeast Europe (SEE), Bulgaria played a crucial role in various energy transit projects, particularly pipelines aimed at transporting natural gas.