The Commission for Energy and Water Regulation (KEVR) in Bulgaria has sanctioned a 5.1% increase in the wholesale natural gas price effective April 2026, following a proposal from the state-owned supplier Bulgargaz. The new price is set at 34.27 euros/MWh, excluding VAT and excise duties, marking a notable shift from the previous month’s 0.9% increase.
Despite this upward adjustment, Bulgaria’s gas pricing remains considerably lower than that of major European trading hubs. The approved rate is approximately 20 euros/MWh lower than current international market rates, which positions Bulgarian consumers—both residential and commercial—favorably compared to wider regional pricing dynamics.
This competitive edge is particularly pronounced when comparing Bulgaria’s prices to those at the Dutch TTF hub, which serves as Europe’s primary gas benchmark. Recent trends indicate that prices at this hub have escalated to around 54 euros/MWh, underscoring the disparity between Bulgaria’s regulated pricing framework and the fluctuations observed in the broader European market.
Moreover, the April gas price reflects a positive trend compared to the same period last year. Current pricing is about 10.7% lower than April 2025, when natural gas was priced at 38.39 euros/MWh in Bulgaria, indicating a sustained effort to maintain affordability amid changing market conditions.
In summary, while the recent price hike may suggest a shift, Bulgaria’s regulatory approach continues to provide a buffer against the short-term volatility prevalent in European gas markets, ensuring stability for consumers in the region.
