site.btaAnti-Corruption Bloc's Filip Pavlov Presents Vision for Sustainable Cities

Filip Pavlov, top-of-the-list MP candidate for the Anti-Corruption Bloc in Vratsa, presented a vision for more sustainable and healthier cities at a meeting with citizens on Friday, he told BTA. In his words, a national programme for rooftop solar panels, funded by the state and EU funds, should be launched as early as this year. "This will make every household more independent from energy companies and will significantly reduce electricity bills," Pavlov said.

To illustrate the impact, Pavlov cited an example: a standard solar panel receiving just four hours of sunlight per day produces around 60 kWh per month. At a current electricity price of EUR 0.13 per kWh, this amounts to savings of nearly EUR 8 per month. "Now imagine what each household could save if solar panels were installed across the entire roof," he added, stressing that the programme should be coupled with a reduced VAT rate of 9% on electricity.

Pavlov also proposed a broader plan to improve the urban environment, including the modernization of municipal hospitals and the construction of multi-storey car parks, so that car-free spaces between residential buildings can be preserved for flowers and gardens. "Green spaces encourage physical activity, reduce stress and create a healthier social environment," he explained.

Energy sustainability and health must go hand in hand, Pavlov said. These initiatives are an investment in disease prevention and the overall well-being of citizens.