site.btaEnergy Ministers of Bulgaria, Norway Discuss Strengthening Cooperation on Green Transition, Renewable Energy

During an official visit to Oslo, Bulgarian Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov held a bilateral meeting with his Norwegian counterpart Terje Aasland, the Ministry’s press office reported on Wednesday. The two discussed key areas of cooperation, including renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, and continued partnership under the Norwegian Financial Mechanism.

Stankov emphasized Bulgaria’s strategic potential to become an energy hub in the Balkans, enhancing regional connectivity and supply security. In this context, the planned construction of four new pumped-storage hydropower plants was discussed as a sustainable development opportunity.

He highlighted Bulgaria’s favourable investment climate and invited Norwegian companies to invest in new energy infrastructure. The ministers also explored knowledge exchange in CCS technologies, aiming to build long-term partnerships in the decarbonization process.

Stankov praised the successful implementation of projects funded by the Norwegian Financial Mechanism in Bulgaria and expressed confidence in expanding bilateral cooperation. He also pointed to opportunities in innovative initiatives, including passive building technologies, smart heating and cooling solutions, and broader access to photovoltaic systems for households.

He announced the upcoming establishment of a dedicated unit within the Energy Ministry to coordinate projects with potential for external funding and strategic national significance, calling for Norwegian engagement in this process.

As part of the visit, Stankov also met with Norway’s energy regulator Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate to discuss deepening energy ties, especially within the framework of the European Economic Area and Norwegian Financial Mechanisms, and promoting the green transition.

Stankov held talks with representatives of German company Heidelberg Materials as well. Discussions focused on electricity pricing challenges and industrial energy solutions, including energy storage via batteries and the construction of pumped-storage hydropower plants to improve system flexibility and reliability.

He stressed the importance of both national and regional energy interconnectivity as a key factor in ensuring sustainable growth and stable energy supply.

“Bulgaria views the company as a potential strategic investor,” Stankov said, expressing readiness to provide strong institutional support for future projects in the country.