Bulgaria Electricity System Operator (ESO) has signed a contract with the country's Ministry of Energy for the first phase of its GREENABLER project, designed to modernize the national electricity transmission network. This €857 million ($887.8 million) initiative, funded by the EU's Modernisation Fund, aims to enhance Bulgaria's grid capacity and support the integration of renewable energy.

The project's initial phase involves upgrading 720km of power lines from 220kV to 400kV, alongside the simultaneous modernization of associated substations. These upgrades will help facilitate the connection of more renewable energy sources, stabilizing the transmission network and enhancing efficiency.

In addition, the project includes the reconstruction of the Hemus - Stara Planina power line and the expansion of nearly 1,000km of 110kV powerlines. These developments are expected to significantly increase Bulgaria's electricity transmission capacity, making it easier to incorporate renewable energy into the national grid.

ESO Executive Director Angelin Tsachev and Bulgarian Caretaker Minister of Energy Vladimir Malinov emphasized that the project will contribute to both the efficiency of grid operators and the broader transition to low-emission energy sources. The upgrades are planned to be completed in phases over the next seven years, helping Bulgaria meet its renewable energy goals.

Source: smart-energy.com