site.btaSofia’s Winter Heating Supply Is Secured, Energy Minister Says

Sofia’s district heating supply for the upcoming winter season is secured, insofar as it depends on the Energy Ministry, Energy Minister Iva Petrova said during Q&A in Parliament Friday.

Toplofikatsia Sofia’s total debts to Bulgargaz and Bulgarian Energy Holding (BEH) exceed EUR 1.28 billion, Petrova pointed out, adding that BEH and Bulgargaz are currently providing the financial resources needed to maintain gas deliveries despite the company’s persistent failure to meet its obligations. Bulgargaz is also seeking additional liquidity from BEH and commercial banks through credit lines.

While this currently ensures supplies, Petrova stressed that it is not a sustainable model. She stated that a long-term solution requires commitments and action from both Toplofikatsia Sofia and its owner, Sofia Municipality. A meeting is planned with the mayor and the municipal council chair of Sofia, together with the CEO of Toplofikatsia Sofia, aiming to secure clear commitments for reliable heating this winter, the minister noted. The Energy Ministry also issued mandatory measures concerning the technical condition and operation of the district heating network, which must be reported on by October 1.

As a positive development, Bulgargaz has initiated steps to resolve outstanding issues related to gas capacity reservations for 2026/27. Toplofikatsia Sofia has submitted a binding capacity reservation request and made an advance payment of EUR 3.2 billion, Petrova also said.