Energy Minister: No Coal-fired Thermal Power Plant Favoured over Rest

UPDATED Energy Minister: No Coal-fired Thermal Power Plant Favoured over Rest

Yoanna Vodenova

Energy Minister Rumen Radev, Aug. 3, 2023 (BTA Photo)

Sofia,

03.08.2023 11:34 | UPDATED 03.08.2023 13:34

(BTA)

No coal-fired thermal power plant is favored over the rest, Energy Minister Rumen Radev said at a press conference at the Council of Ministers on topical issues in the government's agenda. He recalled the basic philosophy of the idea of a just green transition - to seek meaningful transformation through the way of financing.

According to him, the main and biggest problem is the lack of a clear idea of how to get to EU's 2050-2060 goals, which are the same for everyone, and how to achieve the transition.

On the issue of territorial plans, it has taken a long time to start the dialogue, although there have been many talks over the years, Minister Radev said. Therefore, it has taken a long time to start a productive dialogue. He pointed out that the three regions - Stara Zagora, Pernik, Kyustendil - have different problems. The expert part is important, but it is also important that those working there actually know what they are going to work on, he said.

The Energy Minister pointed out that a lot of work has been done on the territorial plans with different ministries and meaningful drafts have already been completed and are ready to be submitted for public discussion.

The commitment is to liberalise the electricity market for the domestic consumer as well by the end of 2025, but this cannot happen without clear mechanisms to tackle energy poverty and support the people, the Energy Minister said. In order to have sufficient preparedness, a draft regulation was submitted in the autumn, under which compensation would take place. Radev pointed out that there will be no serious increase in the price of household electricity. However, he said energy efficiency should be encouraged.

/DD/