What is the electricity sector in Bulgaria?

The electricity sector in Bulgaria is an important part of energy in Bulgaria and is highly diversified. As of 2021 nuclear power accounts for 34.7% of Bulgaria's power, coal power provides 39.4%, while renewable energy provides 15.8% of the country's electricity needs. [ 1]

What is energy in Bulgaria?

Energy in Bulgaria is among the most important sectors of the national economy and encompasses energy and electricity production, consumption and transportation in Bulgaria.

Why is the energy sector important in Bulgaria?

Bulgaria’s power sector is diverse and well developed, with universal access to the grid and numerous cross-border connections in neighboring countries. A key driver of the Bulgarian economy, the energy sector is strongly affected by geopolitical, economic, and regulatory pressures.

Who owns the power market in Bulgaria?

The Bulgarian power market is dominated by state owned producers. Bulgarian Energy Holding (BEH) manages the most important companies in the energy sector, the Kozloduy nuclear power plant, Maritsa Iztok 2 coal power plant, the National Electric Company (NEK), Electricity System Operator (ESO), Bulgargaz, Bulgartransgaz and Bulgartel.

What are the main pillars of electricity production in Bulgaria?

Bulgaria has two main pillars of the electricity producing sector – coal and nuclear. Coal provides roughly half of the electricity in the country and nuclear another 35 per cent. The rest is covered by renewables dominated by large hydro and followed by solar and wind generation.

What is the main source of electricity in Bulgaria in 2022?

Coal energy was the main source of electricity production in Bulgaria in 2022. It accounted for over 45 percent of total electricity generation. Nuclear energy ranked second, making up 35 percent of total production.