The restoration of PSHP Chaira is progressing according to the previously set schedule

The restoration of pumped-storage hydroelectric plant (PSHP) Chaira is progressing according to the previously set schedule. Intensive repair works are in progress to return to operation hydrounit 2 of the plant by applying a specially developed innovative solution for the modification of the turbine part. The rehabilitation and installation of the stator of the generator and the turbine of hydro unit 2 has already been completed. It is planned that the installation of the entire hydro unit will be completed at the beginning of November, so that, after the necessary tests and trials, the facility can be put into operation from the beginning in 2025. This was established by the Minister of Energy, Vladimir Malinov, who checked the progress of restoration activities on site.

After the completion of the repair of hydro unit 2, hydro unit 3 of the plant is to be restored using the same method. For the other two hydro units - 1 and 4 - NEC initiated a procedure for their complete replacement, which will guarantee the sustainable long-term operation of PSHP Chaira.

"The implementation of the large-scale project for the restoration of the largest PSHP in the Balkans has a key role in the successful integration of the growing production from renewable energy sources in sync with the goals of decarbonization and sustainable development of the energy sector," commented Minister Malinov during his visit to the PSHP Chaira.

As part of his inspection of energy facilities, he also visited the Popintsi 110/20 kV substation on the territory of the network operation area of ​​ESO in Plovdiv. It is part of the ring between the Aleko and Zlatitsa substations, which is of key importance for the power supply of the industrial area around Panagyurishte.

"The digitization of the substations Popintsi 110/20 kV and Valchedrum 110/20 kV (which was checked yesterday) as part of the large-scale project of ESO will provide an opportunity to increase the technical capacity to connect new RES capacities to the electricity system by at least 4500 MW" Minister Malinov said during the inspection. He pointed out that the development of a competitive, transparent and sustainable energy sector is a main priority in the work of the Ministry of Energy, and the projects implemented by the energy companies are a basic prerequisite for the implementation of this priority.