Bulgarian wind industry warns over proposed restrictions

The Bulgarian Wind Energy Association (BGWEA), which represents a large number of investors and operators of wind power stations in Bulgaria, is concerned regarding the restrictions proposed in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report and the Impact Assessment Report accompanying Bulgaria's updated Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (INECP) 2024, CE Report quotes BTA.

According to the BGWEA, the proposed restrictions go beyond their impact on the development of a single sector and jeopardize the achievement of national and European energy and climate targets. They limit the potential for the development of competitive clean electricity generation and may reduce Bulgaria's attractiveness for investment in energy-intensive manufacturing, data centres, green hydrogen production and other high-tech industries.

BGWEA's statement reads: "The decisions to be taken under the INECP will have an impact far beyond the energy sector. They will determine the extent to which Bulgaria remains attractive for new investment in the Bulgarian economy, which could rely on competitive, clean and affordable electricity. They will send a signal regarding the reliable functioning of a state governed by the rule of law that fulfils its international commitments. We therefore believe that all restrictions should be based on up-to-date scientific data, current legislation and a thorough assessment of their economic consequences. Only in this way can we simultaneously protect the environment, guarantee legal certainty and support the sustainable development of the Bulgarian economy."

The Association warned that the Impact Assessment Report imposes extensive spatial restrictions on the development of new wind energy projects. These extend far beyond the boundaries of the Natura 2000 network's protected areas and cover significant parts of the regions with the highest wind potential in Bulgaria, including Dobrudzha, the Eastern Rhodope Mountains and parts of the Burgas region, which are defined by the administrative boundaries of the municipalities rather than on the basis of habitats with identified biodiversity threats.

During the public consultation, reasoned submissions were presented by the BGWEA, other representative organizations from the energy sector, and a number of Bulgarian and international investors, however, the reconciliation table published by the Ministry of the Environment and Water shows that, in essence, the objections to the proposed restrictions we not taken into account. As a result, there is a real risk that these restrictions will be included in the final environmental impact assessment report, which is to be issued by the Environment Minister, the BGWEA warned.

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