The public discussion of the territorial plans for the transition of the districts of Stara Zagora, Kyustendil and Pernik has begun

The Ministry of Energy published today for public discussion the territorial plans for a just transition for the districts of Stara Zagora, Kyustendil and Pernik.

The announcement states that according to Regulation (EU) 2021/1056 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 establishing the Just Transition Fund (JTF), the purpose of the JTF is to mitigate the adverse consequences of the climate transition by supporting the most affected territories and workers and to promote a balanced socio-economic transition by providing targeted financial support.

A necessary condition for unlocking the funds under the FSP (1,178 million euros for Bulgaria, of which 505 million euros from the Multiannual Financial Framework and 673 million euros from the "Next Generation EU" Instrument) is the development of territorial plans for a just transition (TPSP) with a horizon until 2030 according to Article 11 of the Regulation. These plans concern the NUTS3 level territories (districts) that will be most affected by the coal transition in the coming years.

The plans should also indicate ways to most effectively overcome the social, economic and environmental challenges in the specific regions. Plans are developed based on the requirements of the Just Transition Fund on a pre-set form.

The projects of territorial plans for a fair transition of the regions eligible for Bulgaria at the NUTS3 level are presented - Stara Zagora (and adjacent municipalities), Kyustendil and Pernik. The plans are published in accordance with the partnership principle for comments and reactions from all interested parties. Comments, opinions and recommendations on the proposed projects can be sent within the statutory deadline to the email address: e-energy@me.government.bg.

The deadline set for public discussion is 14 calendar days - until August 16, 2022, the Institute for Energy Management recalls.