Nikola Stoyanov, acting minister of economy and industry, explained that the government categorically supports every enterprise in Bulgaria that needs to get compensation due to the high cost of natural gas.
Stoyanov also stated that the cabinet would prepare a compensation scheme to present to the next parliament at the opening of a specialised exposition for industrial machinery and technology.
Stoyanov added, ” The Cabinet is taking every step possible to ensure that the company has access to natural gas, including ordering additional supplies as early as this winter. The plan might involve trading gas for power. It is intended to meet at least 150% of the requirements in the winter. The gas is available, but the high expense is the issue.
As the Minister of the Economy, I believe this is the understanding of the entire government. We are firmly “in favour” of compensation for gas because when there is compensation for electricity, there should also be compensation for gas, and it’s not right to put some companies in a non-competitive situation compared to others. Firmly there will be a solution, and we will prepare a scheme that we will propose to the next parliament, of course, because without a regular parliament, we cannot do anything”.
Bulgaria has taken many crucial steps to fulfil its gas requirements since Gazprom cut the supplies. Bulgaria still tries to negotiate with Gazprom, but it was heard that Kremlin doesn’t want Gazprom to deal with Bulgaria.
Recently, the Energy Minister attempted to obtain gas from Azerbaijan, the world’s cheapest gas provider. Gas will be provided in exchange for power under the contract. Bulgaria upgraded the Chiren gas storage facility’s capacity earlier this year to meet the demand for the approaching winter, as wintertime demand for gas gradually rises.
The interconnector from Greece is anticipated to be operational in early October this year. Bulgaria’s efforts raise the prospect that gas needs will be met during the upcoming winter.