The price of water in Burgas region will increase by 1.4 percent from March 1, BTA reported, citing information from "Water Supply and Sewerage - Burgas" EAD. Consumers will pay 2.71 euros (5.30 BGN) with VAT per cubic meter compared to the current value of 2.66 euros (5.21 BGN). The change is in implementation of a decision by the Commission for Energy and Water Regulation and is part of the tariffs approved at the end of last year. The updated prices come into effect after a postponement due to the processes of adaptation to the single European currency.
For the current year, the local water supply operator plans investments of around 8 million euros for the improvement of the water supply and sewerage infrastructure. According to the parameters set in the company's business plan for the period 2022–2026, the total water losses should be reduced to 41 percent. Among the goals is also the improvement of the collection of receivables to over 90 percent. The percentage of rehabilitated network should reach 0.53 percent, while at the same time an increase in the efficiency of the staff is planned, it is also stated in the strategic document.
Among the key projects for 2026 are the inclusion of seven new water sources in different settlements in the region and the construction of backup power supply from the Aheloy and Poroy reservoirs. Technological modernization is also planned through the implementation of a Geographic Information System (GIS) and modernization of heavy machinery.
BTA recalls that a few years ago, Water Supply and Sewerage - Burgas signed a contract for the implementation of the project "Integrated Water Project for Burgas region". It is financed by the Operational Program "Environment 2014 - 2020" and is one of the largest in the water sector that is being implemented in the country - its value reaches nearly half a billion leva. The activities include the implementation of other smaller projects in a number of municipalities in Burgas region, including new water pipes, thrust pipelines, treatment plants and the modernization of existing ones. Currently, the second phase of the project is being implemented.