site.btaEnergy Ministry to Propose Legislative Revisions Improving Power Supply Security
Energy Minister Vladimir Malinov ordered on January 3 that a working group be set up to propose amendments to the Energy Act related to investment costs, the actions of the operators of the electricity distribution networks, and the renovation of the existing facilities. The aim is to improve the technical condition of the network and update penalties for violations. Malinov announced these steps intended to enhance power supply security at Wednesday's hearing in Parliament, which focused on power outages during the recent holidays.
The Energy Ministry has drawn up the legislative proposals and is ready to submit them for public consultation and impact assessment early next week.
The electricity distribution networks in Bulgaria, managed by three electricity distribution companies, include over 163,000 km of power lines and more than 46,000 substations for medium and low voltage. The electricity transmission network, maintained by the Electricity System Operator (ESO), covers nearly 16,000 km of lines and 299 electrical substations, the Energy Minister said.
In September and October 2024, the Energy Ministry conducted random inspections of facilities managed by the three electricity distribution companies and ESO, Malinov said. In December, control bodies inspected randomly selected energy facilities of the distribution companies. At some of the sites, inspectors identified irregularities in technical operation and work safety. Statements have been drawn up for these cases and mandatory recommendations will be issued. If they are not followed, pecuniary penalties may also be imposed.
/RY/
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