Bulgaria’s installed battery storage reached approximately 3.3 GW of power and 8.6 GWh of capacity by mid-2026. The expansion increases the country’s ability to absorb solar generation and supply electricity during higher-demand periods. Most of the battery capacity is connected directly to the grid.
The added storage capacity has provided flexibility in a market that remained a net electricity exporter during periods of tight southeastern European supply over the summer. With more batteries available, daytime solar output can be shifted into later hours. This is expected to reduce curtailment and ease pressure on conventional generation when renewable production falls.
Recovery and Resilience Plan funding for solar and batteries
Nearly €1 billion made available through Bulgaria’s Recovery and Resilience Plan has helped attract private investment into storage and renewable generation. Supported projects are expected to deliver approximately 3 GW of additional solar capacity and 15 GWh of battery storage. The programme supports both renewable generation build-out and associated storage.
EBRD support programmes with Bulgaria’s Energy Ministry
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has worked with Bulgaria’s Energy Ministry since 2023 on competitive support programmes. The programmes cover standalone batteries as well as storage paired with other energy assets. The bank’s approach includes structured support mechanisms for energy projects in Bulgaria.
Separately, the EBRD has invested €520 million in 23 Bulgarian green energy transactions since 2023. Those projects support approximately 732 MW of renewable capacity. They are expected to reduce annual emissions by about 920,000 tonnes.
