Ivan Ivanov: The increase in the price of household electricity will be higher than the initially announced 3.63% because of the TPP "Maritsa East 2"

The price of electricity for household consumers may increase slightly more than previously announced by the Commission for Energy and Water Regulation (СEWR) by an average of 3.63%. The reason is a change in the electricity quotas for the regulated market by state producers. In particular, it is about more electricity for the regulated market from the TPP "Maritsa East 2". This became clear from the explanation of the СEWR chairman to journalists.

"Regarding the price of electricity for household consumers (the price on a regulated market), what the commission determined at an open meeting and was subject to public discussion is an average increase of 3.63%, which is four times lower than inflation in the country, as we have taken into account for this increase only the absolutely necessary increases in prices, services and materials for energy companies. But since an order was issued by the Minister of Energy for an additional quantity for TPP "Maritsa East" 2 to be included in the mix for the regulated market, this will lead to a certain increase in the price of electricity. The order is only for 2-3 days from Minister Hristov. He was then acting minister. This is done because otherwise TPP "Maritsa East" 2 would operate at a loss and must be supported", explained Ivan Ivanov.

In his words, according to the order, realization of 2.2 TWh, i.e. 2 million 200 thousand MWh, is required from TPP "Maritsa East 2". In total for the regulated market, it is about 12 TWh or 1/6, which should be introduced into the mix. However, this means removing quantities of other manufacturers from the mix.

Ivan Ivanov also commented on the increase in the price of water in Pernik by 40%, explaining that this is due to the need to modernize the network.

"First of all, the waterworks are almost 70 years old, with materials that are worn out and as a result there are many leaks. These leaks are paid for by consumers if there is no network modernization. The modernization itself is not carried out for free and funds are needed," said Ivanov. He explained that part of these funds come from various institutions, but a certain part also comes from the price of water. In addition, he argues with the increase in the price of energy, which is used by water and sanitation operators. "I have to add that the price of energy has increased and maybe there will be a general decision for the water supply operators to request total amounts of electricity in order to reduce it, but this is not yet a fact," he said.

The Chairman of the СEWR also expressed his agreement with the thesis that it is necessary to increase the sanctions for electricity distribution companies if they do not connect RES. "It is normal for there to be an increase in penalties as the delay leads to losses for a manufacturer who waits 1 year to join. There are such delays. There are cases when some people ask themselves whether they should not give up further steps because of such delays," Ivan Ivanov also said. He also confirmed the fact of the growth of photovoltaics by about 40 percent in the last year.