CPC initiates three proceedings on public procurement in the energy sector

The Commission for Protection of Competition (CPC) is taking decisive action in the field of public procurement, initiating three separate proceedings against key institutions and companies in Bulgaria's energy and infrastructure sectors. These proceedings are in response to complaints filed by various companies challenging decisions related to public procurement.

Proceedings against NEK

The first proceeding is directed against the "National Electric Company" (NEK) and was initiated following a complaint from "Respromkomplekt" AD. The complaint concerns NEK's decision for subscription maintenance and servicing of fire extinguishing and fire alarm systems in the company's facilities. This case raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the procurement process in the energy sector.

Proceedings against Kozloduy NPP

The second proceeding is against Kozloduy NPP - the largest electricity producer in Bulgaria. It was initiated following a complaint from "Petrol" AD, which challenges the decision for fuel supply through cashless payment cards in the "Lukoil" gas station system throughout the country. This proceeding raises questions about competition in the fuel sector and the potential advantage given to certain suppliers.

Proceedings against Svishtov Municipality

The third proceeding is directed against Svishtov Municipality and is the result of a complaint filed by the consortium "Svishtov 2024" DZZD. The complaint challenges the decision for the reconstruction of the Gradishte - Ovcha mogila - Dragomirovo road. This case sheds light on the public procurement processes at the municipal level and potential problems in the field of infrastructure projects.

All these complaints have been filed under the Public Procurement Act (PPA), which underscores the importance of this legislative act in regulating public spending and ensuring fair play in the public procurement process.

The CPC's actions demonstrate the institution's active role in overseeing public procurement processes in various sectors of the Bulgarian economy. These proceedings aim to ensure fairness, transparency, and effective competition in public procurement processes, which are crucial for the efficient functioning of the economy and the proper spending of public funds.

These proceedings are expected to shed additional light on public procurement practices in Bulgaria and potentially lead to improvements in the system if irregularities are found. The results of these investigations will be of great interest to businesses, state institutions, and the public as a whole.