Bulgaria importance of solar panel

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.

What percentage of Bulgaria's electricity is generated by solar power?

Solar power generated 12% of Bulgaria’s electricity in 2023. By the end of 2020 about 1 GW of solar PV had been installed. It has been estimated that there is potential for at least another 4 GW by 2030. On March 13, 2023, peak photovoltaics power was 30% of Bulgaria electricity generation.

What will Bulgaria's new solar power plant do?

With a nominal output of 124 megawatts peak (MWp), the Verila solar power plant will make a significant contribution to Bulgaria’s green electricity mix from spring 2023 onwards. Built by SUNOTEC, the new solar park will generate energy equivalent to 12 percent of the current total output of all PV plants in the country.

What should Bulgaria do about solar energy?

The authorities in Bulgaria need to take steps to systematically reduce barriers, fees, and surcharges on small and medium-sized solar PV systems, make it easier to connect to the grid and export the surplus electricity, and create a comprehensive policy and regulatory environment to catalyse investments.

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.

How are solar PV projects promoted in Bulgaria?

Large-scale, commercial and industrial PV projects in Bulgaria are promoted through premium agreements. All solar PV plants with capacity of 4 MW and higher can apply for them. Premium agreements are concluded with the Energy Security System Fund (ESSF). RES producers also sign contracts with the National Electricity Company (NEK).