By 2020 Bulgaria will have Belene nuclear power plant, as well as three gas and two coal plants constructed. These would be used to guarantee Bulgarias energy independence.
The National Electric Company (NEC) presented its plans for the development of the energy system, Dnevnik newspaper reported. The plan is updated every two years but now it had to be modified earlier due to expected closure of two Kozlodui nuclear power plant reactors.
Belenes first block will be ready in the period between 2012 and 2015, according to the plan.
By the middle of 2006 Bulgarias new energy strategy will be completed. Currently, the national energy system is dependent on the supply of Russian gas. After the visit of Economy Minister Roumen Ovcharov to Russia, local representatives did not show interest in further long-term energy co-operation, Economy Ministry representatives said.
Bulgaria confirmed its EU engagement to close down Kozloduis third and fourth blocks by the end of 2006. The technical parameters of this decision are currently discussed with European Commission experts.
The reactor closure strategy will likely receive approval from Brussels by the end of March. Between 2007 and 2009 Bulgaria expects to receive 290 million euro energy aid from the EU. Specific energy projects, related to the funds, have not been discussed yet.
