The Energy Minister Stankov discussed key priorities for the decarbonization of the sector with the Vice-President of the EC Ribera.

Key priorities and challenges for the development of the energy sector in Bulgaria and the region were the main topic of the conversation between the Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov and the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for a clean, fair and competitive transition Theresa Ribera. Minister Stankov thanked his guest for the fruitful and effective discussion with the EC on the update of the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan. "Thanks to this cooperation, our country today has a clear vision for the development of the industry, based on broad public consensus and solid objective indicators," stressed the Energy Minister.

He paid special attention to the search for long-term and sustainable solutions related to the future of the coal regions in the country, as during the transition period, lignite coal remains a key element of the country's energy security. "We are discussing the possibilities for mixing lignite coal with biomass as a solution to reduce CO2 emissions," explained Minister Stankov, emphasizing the active efforts of the government to develop a long-term decarbonization strategy.

The development of the projects for Units 7 and 8 of the Kozloduy NPP, as well as the prospects for the construction of four new pumped-storage hydroelectric power plants in the country, were also presented as a key part of the efforts to structure a secure, competitive and sustainable energy system in line with European green goals. According to Minister Stankov, the ambition of the Ministry of Energy is for Unit 7 of the Kozloduy NPP to be put into operation in 2035, and Unit 8 two years later.

The two interlocutors agreed that the work on these projects in close cooperation with the EC is a key condition for their successful implementation within the set deadlines. "The projects for new pumped-storage hydroelectric power plants, as well as the restoration of the largest plant of this type in the Balkans - Chaira, are leading priorities in the work of the Ministry of Energy for balancing the electricity system," Minister Stankov also pointed out. He explained that in the coming months, the preparation of all documentation for the construction of the new facilities is forthcoming, and various options for public-private partnership are being discussed for the specific models.

The meeting between Minister Stankov and Theresa Ribera was also attended by the Deputy Minister of Energy Krasimir Nenov and the Executive Director of Kozloduy NPP - New Capacities Petyo Ivanov.