Bulgaria seeks predictable rules and funding for nuclear energy expansion

Bulgarian Energy Minister Iva Petrova emphasized the need for long-term commitment, predictable regulations, and stable financing for the nuclear energy sector during the 19th European Nuclear Energy Forum (ENEF) in Prague.

Petrova highlighted that Bulgaria is currently working on developing new capacities at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant and is evaluating the potential role of small modular reactors. She noted that nuclear energy projects must look beyond political cycles and individual project timelines to ensure sustainable industrial potential and investment.

Bulgaria is pursuing a diversification strategy that began with nuclear fuel supplies and is expanding to include other parts of the supply chain, such as the maintenance of existing equipment. The Minister stressed that successful implementation requires a predictable investment environment, a clear division of risks and responsibilities, and the training of a new generation of specialists. The forum panel also included representatives from the European Commission and the Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade.