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 solar power will Bulgaria have by 2030?

It has been estimated that there is potential for at least another 4 GW by 2030. By the end of 2024 about 3.9 GW of solar had been installed. On March 13, 2023, peak photovoltaics power was 30% of Bulgaria electricity generation. However, long-term share of solar power is much lower.

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.

What is the biggest solar PV plant to be built in Bulgaria?

This is also one of the biggest solar PV plants to be constructed in Bulgaria in recent years. With the solar PV plant, Aurubis Bulgaria will save some 11.700 MWh per year from grid electricity consumption (sufficient for approx. 12.000 households), which will cover an average of 2.5% of the electricity needs of its smelter facility.

Why are distributed solar PV projects being built in Bulgaria?

Most distributed solar PV projects currently being built in Bulgaria are being configured purely for self-consumption; in other words, they are not connected to the grid, and are being used strictly to reduce the customer’s electricity bill. This makes it harder for distribution system operators (DSOs) to monitor, and control.