Green Energy or Green Dependence?

Over the past three years, Bulgaria has witnessed a surge in renewable energy investments. Dozens of foreign companies — from Germany, Austria, France, and the UAE — have announced large-scale wind and solar projects. Is this the beginning of a genuine green revolution, or just another wave of corporate expansion?

Who Are the New Players?

Some of the key foreign investors include:

• VERBUND (Austria) – a €200 million solar project near Yambol
• TotalEnergies (France) – targeting wind energy projects in Northern Bulgaria
• ACWA Power (Saudi Arabia) – exploring hybrid green energy developments

Local entrepreneurs and firms often act as subcontractors or facilitators, raising the question: who really owns Bulgaria’s green future?

Benefits: Investments, Jobs, and EU Alignment

These initiatives undoubtedly bring several advantages:

• Increased production of clean energy and reduced carbon emissions
• Job creation in underdeveloped regions
• Progress toward EU climate and recovery goals

Grid infrastructure is expanding, and part of the revenue returns to the state via taxes and concession fees.

Risks: External Control and Strategic Vulnerabilities

Behind the green transition lies a risk of:

• Over-dependence on foreign firms and technology
• Loss of national control over critical infrastructure
• Capital outflow instead of reinvestment

Some contracts involve long-term fixed purchase prices, which may prove unfavorable for Bulgaria’s energy market as conditions change.

Institutional Reactions

The Ministry of Energy welcomes foreign investors, but more experts are calling for stricter regulation. Parliament is debating energy law amendments that would introduce local participation quotas and technology requirements.

Winners and Losers

Multinational energy giants benefit from Bulgaria’s liberal energy policies and low land and labor costs. Local communities often gain temporary employment but lack long-term security.

A Balanced Approach?

Experts from the Energy Studies Institute suggest:

• Establishing a national green development bank to co-fund local-led projects
• Involving universities in R&D and green innovation
• Requiring domestic partnerships in large-scale energy ventures

This could ensure that the green transition is both environmentally and economically sustainable.

Conclusion

Bulgaria stands at a crossroads. The country can lead Europe’s green transition — but only by protecting its energy sovereignty while staying open to innovation and investment.

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.