Vladimir Malinov: The expansion of the Chiren gas storage facility is a strategic project for Bulgaria

"It is normal for the price of natural gas to increase during the heating season. World markets and global trends are going up." This was said by Energy Minister Vladimir Malinov in the bTV program "Why, Mr. Minister". A significant increase in the price of natural gas from today was approved by the energy regulator. With a decision of the Energy and Water Regulatory Commission of December 1, the price per megawatt-hour of natural gas excluding prices for access, transmission, excise duty and VAT becomes 75.89 leva.

This is nearly 10.4% more than the price in November, which was 68.75 leva.

"The good news is that the price will be 11 leva cheaper than all average European prices for the month of December. Bulgaria is provided with natural gas, namely our storage facility was filled to 100% at the beginning of November, to date to 92%, which means that we have 500 million cubic meters. Bulgarian households and Bulgarian businesses should be calm - the quantities that were provided, liquefied natural gas, are sufficient. Bulgarian consumers of natural gas should be completely calm. ", explained Malinov.

He assured that our country has the ability to fully cover the consumption of natural gas.

"Yes, prices can go up. We are monitoring all processes. As you know, in the caretaker government we took measures to compensate for the high prices of natural gas that was stored in "Chiren". If there is such a need, we will analyze the market and react adequately," said Minister Malinov.

He added that there are sufficient quantities in the "Chiren" storage facility in both Greece and Turkey.

"Chiren" is undoubtedly a significant project for Bulgaria and the region. This was one of the projects that were launched during my management of Bulgartransgaz, since the expansion of Chiren has been a topic since before 2010. Part of the connecting gas pipeline has been put into operation, and by the end of the year the above-ground facilities that are necessary to increase the daily capacity, respectively for injection and extraction, will be activated and put into operation at the beginning of next year,” said the acting Minister of Energy.

Vladimir Malinov answered evasively when asked whether he would remain in his post under a new acting cabinet.