"We will not allow the Maritsa East 3 Thermal Power Plant to shut down," stated Minister of Energy ZhechoStankov at a press briefing in Maritsa East 2 TPP.
He explained that he has received a commitment from the management of the plant that at least two of its blocks will be operational from July onwards, without the need for any repair work.
"This provides even greater security for our energy system and sufficient work for Mini Maritsa East AD. We have had multiple discussions about whether the state should become a shareholder in Maritsa East 3 TPP, as this plant is included as a strategic infrastructure, guaranteeing supply security and I will not allow this plant to stop working. It is unacceptable for workers to be laid off there. The owners understood my words and now there is personnel available, and they can "ignite" at any moment.
"Maritsa Iztok 3" works entirely on the free market and there is enough space there. I am sure that with good organization, this power plant can operate between 5 and 7 months a year with good load," the minister pointed out.
He announced that by the end of the year, "Mini Maritsa-Iztok" EAD is provided with funds for salaries and repair program. "Mini Maritsa-Iztok" is extremely efficient in terms of utilizing funds for repairs. The activities are mainly carried out by their own personnel, trained individuals who work on a daily basis - very economically. There will be work for the six thousand people who work there. We now have more than ever need for Bulgarian miners. "Especially after what we saw in Spain and Portugal," said Zhecho Stankov.
According to him, "TPP Maritsa East 2" EAD, NPP "Kozloduy" and the hydropower plants "are pioneers that will not give a chance for the heart of the Bulgarian energy sector to fall out of rhythm."
"The Bulgarian state, through its maneuvering capabilities and its capacitive batteries and buffers for consuming this reactive energy, shows that it is protected not only from the scenario in Spain and Portugal, but also from the one in North Macedonia and Serbia, to which we also helped to raise their systems," explained the Minister of Energy.