The amount of electricity produced at the St. Nikola Wind Farm during the first nine months of 2022 increased by 7% in comparison to the same period in 2021. Consumers in Bulgaria received 270 115 MWh of sustainable energy from St. Nikola’s turbines between January and the end of September 2022. The wind farm generated 23 495 MWh of electricity in September this year, 13% more than August.
The idea of constructing a wind farm took place in 2003 by AES Bulgaria and began in January 2009. Saint Nikola‘s 33/110 kV step-up substation was activated and put into service in December 2009. The wind farm’s commercial operations began in March 2010. Since 2009, AES Geo Energy has opened more than 500 offices during the duration of construction and 20 for operational use.
With a maximum capacity of 156 MW, the St. Nikola windfarm is the biggest farm in Bulgaria, with 52 turbines installed. Bulgaria’s ability to produce renewable energy has quickly increased since the farm became operational. It also contributes to the EU’s 20/20/20 programme developed for environment conservation by promoting sustainable energy sources.
AES Bulgaria owns the St. Nikola Wind Farm, and the project’s investment totals BGN 540 million. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and two commercial banks each contributed EUR 32 million to the EUR 64 million loan facility AES Bulgaria secured in December 2021. The package consists of a new commitment of 16 million euros and a refinancing of the remaining liability on an earlier loan.
The wind farm helps Bulgaria adhere to its promises to the EU on the inclusion of RES in the country’s overall energy mix. The St. Nikola project represents a significant advancement in Bulgaria’s efforts to produce more renewable energy and achieve a greener energy future.