The Bulgarian Government has enacted a targeted exemption from specific provisions of the European Union’s Russia-related sanctions to facilitate the ongoing operations of the nation’s sole nuclear power plant, NPP Kozloduy. This decision underscores the critical importance of maintaining energy security and operational integrity in the face of geopolitical challenges.
This exemption pertains to selected articles of Council Regulation (EU) No 833/2014, allowing NPP Kozloduy to proceed with a public procurement contract awarded to a designated contractor. Under this derogation, the facility is authorized to import essential iron and steel products from Russia, which are necessary to fulfill the contract requirements as outlined in the government’s directive.
Officials emphasized that this measure is fundamentally driven by safety imperatives rather than commercial motivations. Ensuring the highest standards of nuclear and technical safety—including radiation protection, workplace health, and environmental safeguards—remains a paramount operational priority for NPP Kozloduy. The uninterrupted access to original components and materials from the original equipment manufacturers is deemed crucial for maintaining safe and stable operations at the plant.
A significant proportion of Kozloduy’s systems and equipment is sourced from Russia, making it imperative for certain critical supplies necessary for the reliable functioning of units 5 and 6 to be procured from Russian producers. The government has acknowledged that while some contracts with Russian suppliers are already established, further agreements are essential to guarantee uninterrupted electricity generation and adherence to stringent nuclear safety standards.
