How big is Bulgaria's solar power?

In a matter of months, Bulgaria’s total solar power capacity is set to exceed 3 GW, compared to just 1.3 GW at the end of 2021. The lineup in the list of the largest photovoltaic plants is changing almost every week as major facilities come online, and there is more in the pipeline.

How much money is needed for energy storage projects in Bulgaria?

The Ministry of Energy of Bulgaria prepared EUR 589 million in grants for standalone energy storage projects. The deadline for applications is November 21. With the surge in photovoltaic capacity, ambitious plans for renewables overall and a collapse in the coal power segment, Bulgaria needs urgent grid upgrades alongside energy storage.

When will energy storage systems be installed in Bulgaria?

The selected energy storage facilities must be put into operation by the end of March 2026. Authorities will check the status of every project in May 2025, the announcement reads. Bulgaria already held the first two tenders for battery energy storage systems (BESS) that would be integrated with renewable electricity plants.

Are solar panels a viable option for self-consumption in Bulgaria?

Conversely, households and institutions interested in installing solar panels for self-consumption are still stuck with administrative hurdles In the statistics of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Bulgaria had 1.28 GW at the end of 2021 and 1.95 GW just one year later. The measure is expressed in nominal or peak capacity.

Where is Galabovo solar BG located?

Galabovo Solar BG, another subsidiary of Santera Re, is operating a 201.4 MW (150 MW connection) photovoltaic park. But it should be noted that it also consists of three sites: in Obruchishte, Mednikarovo and Musachevo. The Galabovo municipality is in south-central Bulgaria, in the Stara Zagora province. The facility has just come online.

Does Bulgaria have a pumped hydropower plant?

Moreover, the country’s only pumped storage hydropower plant, Chaira, is still out of order. Bulgaria is developing a plan for another two large facilities of the kind. The Ministry of Energy acknowledged that it is issuing the public call for standalone energy storage units after a long delay.