In the context of ever-increasing energy consumption and global ambitions for climate neutrality, Bulgaria must develop its nuclear energy sector with the active participation of experts, clear goals, and iron-clad safety guarantees. This was the leading message delivered by President Rumen Radev during a key meeting with the leadership of the Bulgarian Atomic Forum (BULATOM), which took place at "Dondukov" 2. The information was distributed by the press secretariat of the head of state, which detailed the institution's position on one of the most sensitive and strategic issues for national security.
According to the official announcement, the president emphasized that long-term state policy is critically important for achieving energy autonomy and sustainability. The participants in the conversation agreed that nuclear energy is an irreplaceable source of base-load energy with a low environmental impact. To achieve these goals, detailed planning is necessary, which includes clear calculations and a specific financial framework.
Factors for Stability: The Role of the Presidential Institution and Interim Governments
The head of state highlighted the efforts of the presidential institution and the interim governments appointed by him, aimed at ensuring stability and predictability in the Bulgarian energy sector. Among the specific steps is the strategy for the sector developed at the beginning of 2023 by the cabinet of Galab Donev. Special attention was paid to the diversification of nuclear fuel for Kozloduy NPP. Radev recalled that back in 2022, during another interim government, an agreement was signed with "Westinghouse", and subsequently a decision was made for "Framatome" to also supply nuclear fuel. These measures are key to reducing dependency and increasing the security of energy supplies.
New Nuclear Capacities: Challenges and Long-Term Investments
During the meeting, the future construction of units 7 and 8 of Kozloduy NPP was also discussed. President Radev emphasized the need for the timely training of a sufficient number of Bulgarian specialists, who will be qualified for both the construction and the subsequent safe operation and maintenance of the new facilities.
BULATOM expressed the position that the lack of a clear financial framework and precise information on the final cost of the projects could lead to a postponement of the process, which in turn would increase costs due to inflation. This position underscores the importance of transparency and specific parameters in strategic projects.
Bulgaria's Experience and International Recognition
The meeting participants unanimously agreed that Bulgaria has over 50 years of proven experience in operating nuclear facilities, adhering to the highest international safety standards. This experience, according to them, provides a basis for the country to have high ambitions for the development of its nuclear sector. Defining specific priorities, with clear prices, deadlines, and stages for the construction of new capacities, is of key importance for guaranteeing the long-term energy security of the state.
During the conversation, the growing global energy consumption was also noted, as was the so-called "nuclear alliance" in Europe, achieved in 2021, which recognizes investments in nuclear energy as sustainable and green. The president recalled that at the meetings of the European Council he personally defended this position, and France and Bulgaria took a leading role in this process with the support of eight other European countries.
President Radev congratulated the representatives of BULATOM on the successful holding of the International Nuclear Conference in Bulgaria this year. The event gathered leading experts from all over the world who discussed the prospects and challenges facing the global nuclear industry.
The Bulgarian Atomic Forum (BULATOM), established in June 2001, is a non-governmental organization that unites engineering and construction companies, equipment suppliers, and individual experts in the field of nuclear energy. One of the main goals of the organization is to provide safe and reliable solutions for nuclear energy to meet the growing energy needs of Bulgaria and other countries.