site.btaPower Companies Now Required to Invest in Grid Security under New Law, Energy Minister

Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov said Thursday in Parliament that recent amendments to the Energy Act will address citizens’ concerns over power outages. The new law, adopted at second reading by the National Assembly, mandates compensation from electricity distribution companies (EDCs) if customers are left without power for more than 48 hours within a 72-hour period.

“I made a commitment to all Bulgarian consumers and to Parliament that we would revise the Energy Act to hold EDCs accountable. That promise has been fulfilled,” said Stankov. The changes were triggered by widespread outages during the December holidays last year, which exposed chronic neglect of aging infrastructure.

The amendments were drafted in cooperation with the Energy and Water Regulatory Commission and introduced with the support of MPs. Stankov said that under the new rules, EDCs must make real, accountable investments to improve network reliability.

In a move to improve local responsiveness, municipalities will now be able to participate in EDCs investment planning, as mayors often have firsthand knowledge of recurring issues. The law also requires EDCs to maintain dedicated communication channels for municipalities during emergencies.

Stankov dismissed opposition claims that the legislation was not initiated by the Council of Ministers, clarifying that urgent action was needed. He also denied suggestions that the legal changes would allow longer outage periods without penalties. “Previously, the limit was 24 hours, after which compensation was due. But EDCs often restarted the clock by briefly restoring power for a few minutes. Now, the law clearly states that if a household has no electricity for a cumulative 48 hours within 72, penalties must be paid,” he explained.

The law also addresses a long-standing EU infringement procedure over delayed transposition of a directive, which has cost Bulgaria EUR 1,800 per day in penalties. Additionally, an administrative gap in the Concessions Act relating to geothermal energy use is being corrected.

“The law sets a clear standard. If EDCs fail to fulfill their obligations, households will be compensated,” said Stankov.