Bulgarian energy companies will cooperate with U.S Trade and Development Agency
Possibilities to deepen energy cooperation were discussed by the Minster of Energy Vladimir Malinov and the Regional Director for the Middle East, North Africa, Europe and Asia of the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), Mr. Carl Kress. The U.S Trade and Development Agency finances key projects and collaborates with companies to develop sustainable infrastructure and stimulate economic development in partner countries. At the Ministry of Energy, Mr. Kress presented the main criteria for projects to be eligible for USTDA support.
"For the Bulgarian side, the U.S Trade and Development Agency is a reliable partner to carry out priority energy projects. Together, we will exchange experience and build on expertise to successfully address the challenges of sector transformation," Minister Malinov said during the meeting. Specific project proposals were discussed in the areas of nuclear energy, nuclear waste management, hydrogen development, grid expansion, etc.
Regulatory capacity building for AP 1000 reactors, training of specialists in the construction of new units at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant site, EIA expertise, feasibility studies, expansion and upgrading of nuclear fuel diversification systems – these are part of the potential areas of cooperation between USTDA and Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant.
Bulgartransgaz EAD applied to USTDA for the financing of a feasibility study on a pilot project for the production and use of green hydrogen for technological purposes in the facilities of Chiren underground gas storage, became apparent during the discussion. The gas transmission operator shall work on the future development of the hydrogen transmission infrastructure as well as on adapting the existing gas transmission system for transportation of hydrogen gas mixtures.
The State Enterprise “Radioactive Waste” is working on a feasibility study on the use of U.S. technology for potential deep borehole disposal of spent nuclear fuel from the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant. After an approval by the Management Board of the RAW Fund, a grant agreement for the project will be signed with USTDA.
“Electricity System Operator” EAD and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency could cooperate in carrying out the exploratory activities for the East-West electricity transmission corridor that would link the operators of Türkiye, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Albania, Montenegro and Italy. Expanding the possibilities for sharing electricity produced among different countries will contribute to energy security and improve market conditions in the region.