site.btaEurozone Brings New Prospects for Bulgarian Energy Sector - Finance Minister Petkova

New prospects are opening up for Bulgaria’s energy sector with the country’s accession to the eurozone on January 1, 2026, said Finance Minister Temenuzhka Petkova on Tuesday at the Compass 20225 national conference5, dedicated to major projects in Bulgarian energy. The forum was organized by the Institute for Strategies and Analyses.

Petkova added that these prospects are not only for the energy sector but also for the country and the economy as a whole. She stated that Bulgaria’s eurozone membership is an undeniable success for all, and in practice, it means economic and price stability, easier access to European markets, and easier access to lending.

 “All that lies ahead regarding the eurozone will, I’m confident, have a positive effect on the Bulgarian economy and, in particular, on the energy sector,” Petkova said.

She highlighted the government's understanding of the importance of investing in energy and the belief that the state must stand behind such investments. Referring to the recent capital increase of the Bulgarian Energy Holding (BEH) approved by the government, Petkova said this approach is the right one.

 “Our view is that every lev invested in BEH is an investment in economic growth,” she stated.

According to Petkova, this capital increase is a clear signal from the government that it firmly supports the Bulgarian energy sector and the investments needed.

Another indicator of the government's attitude toward energy, she said, is the state-guaranteed debt of the country. She noted that 45% of it is allocated to energy projects. Under the 2025 State Budget Act, state guarantees have been secured for the construction of Units 7 and 8 of Kozloduy NPP, the Vertical Gas Corridor,  and the rehabilitation and modernization of the Chaira Pumped Storage Hydropower Plant and the construction of the Yadenitsa Dam.

“All these major energy projects have the unconditional support of the state,” Petkova emphasized.

She also said that during the 2026 budget procedure, the government plans to continue this policy of support, and where necessary, the amount of state guarantees may be increased. This approach may be needed especially for the development of nuclear energy, particularly for Units 7 and 8 of Kozloduy NPP.

 “We are in communication with our colleagues at the Ministry of Energy, Kozloduy NPP, and BEH, and we will work in that direction,” she said.

Petkova further warned about the risks of entering into commitments or contracts in the energy sector without proper economic justification.

 “In the energy sector, when such an approach is taken, the consequences are serious—structural and financial problems,” she said.

As an example, she cited the contract signed with BOTAS, which she described as lacking economic rationale.

 “The results are already visible - Bulgartransgaz has accumulated BGN 600 million in debt,” Petkova stated.