Energy companies are ready for operation during the upcoming autumn-winter period, assured Deputy Minister of Energy Krasimir Nenov during a meeting of the relevant parliamentary committee. In the conditions of increased tension in the energy markets and increased attention to the security of supplies, this news is of utmost importance for consumers.
Regarding the "Kozloduy" nuclear power plant, Nenov emphasized key moments of preparation. He stressed that the 5th block has been reloaded with an impressive 45 fresh nuclear fuel cassettes. Obviously, the plant is making efforts to ensure stable energy production. During the annual planned maintenance of the 6th block, 36 cassettes will be reloaded. In addition to this, I quote: "There is also a stock of 307 cassettes of fresh nuclear fuel", he noted. This stock is an essential factor in ensuring energy security during the winter.
The assessment of the condition of the thermal power plants in the country was also an important part of the report. The inspections carried out in key facilities such as TPP "AES Maritsa East 1", TPP "Maritsa East 2", TPP "Maritsa East 3", TPP-Pernik, TPP- Bobov Dol and TPP-Sofia, give reason for optimism. The Deputy Minister pointed out, that I quote: "the plants have completed the major repairs for main and auxiliary facilities". This is a key prerequisite for trouble-free operation during the cold months. He added that I quote: "All plants that are obliged to maintain a reserve of liquid and solid fuels have secured them in the necessary quantities." Nenov also stressed the importance of emergency preparedness. According to him, I quote: "Emergency headquarters have been created in all companies to implement emergency plans, including for operation under severe winter conditions".
Unfortunately, not everything is without problems. The Deputy Minister outlined the problem with TPP-Sofia. After the inspection of the heat sources of TPP-Sofia in November, it became clear that the operational readiness to ensure a secure and continuous quality heat supply is in question. I quote: "Due to the numerous unresolved accidents on the network", it becomes clear that there are serious challenges. An additional problem is the indebtedness of TPP-Sofia, which supplies almost three-quarters of the total thermal energy for domestic needs in the country. This raises questions about the financial stability of the supplier and the potential risks to consumers.
The Executive Director of the Bulgarian Energy Holding (BEH) Valentin Nikolov added his comment, emphasizing that the preparation for the autumn-winter season, as every year, takes place in the middle of summer. Regarding investment programs, Nikolov assured that everything has gone according to plan.