Nuclear Energy at the Crossroads of Security and Dependence

Bulgaria stands at the threshold of one of its most critical energy decisions in recent decades. With the revival of the Belene NPP project, expansion of Kozloduy, and increasing involvement of American, French, and Korean technologies, the country’s nuclear energy landscape is becoming increasingly complex.

Belene NPP: From Frozen Project to Strategic Reformatting

After years of political stagnation, Belene is once again being discussed as a strategic asset. Despite historical ties to Russia's Atomstroyexport, discussions now explore replacing components with Western or American technologies. Key challenges include:

• high dependency on Russian reactor design
• lack of clear financial model
• geopolitical risk with renewed Russian involvement

Kozloduy NPP: New Units with American Signature

Kozloduy remains the backbone of Bulgaria’s nuclear capacity. In 2024, the government signed an agreement with Westinghouse to build AP1000 reactors, with involvement from General Electric and Framatome.

Advantages include:

• full compatibility with Western standards
• EU green financing support
• proven safety and efficiency

However, the project faces criticism over timelines and skilled workforce requirements.

The EU’s Role: From Observer to Strategic Investor

The EU is becoming a key actor. In May 2025, the European Commission proposed co-financing nuclear projects to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and Russia. Bulgaria is designated as an “energy bridge” for the Balkans.

• grants for new nuclear capacity
• eased Western tech transfer
• public-private partnerships

Geopolitics and Security: Balancing East and West

Energy dependence remains central. While Belene risks reviving Russian influence, Kozloduy with American reactors signals a Euro-Atlantic direction. Sofia faces a choice between strategic independence and economic pragmatism.

Possible Scenarios by End-2025

• Scenario 1: Belene becomes a fuel storage or industrial hub
• Scenario 2: Kozloduy’s expansion with South Korean suppliers
• Scenario 3: EU funding tied to removal of Russian components

Whatever path Bulgaria takes, the future of nuclear energy will test both its engineering and foreign policy capacities.

Disclaimer:
This article is an analytical review by the BurgasMedia editorial board and reflects the opinion of an expert group based on current political, economic, and social developments.
The conclusions presented are not predictions or factual statements, but a hypothetical interpretation of possible scenarios.
The publication is not responsible for any discrepancies with future developments and encourages readers to form independent judgments based on verified sources.