In a significant regulatory development, Bulgaria’s environmental authorities have uncovered multiple emissions violations at the Bobov Dol thermal power plant during surprise inspections conducted in mid-April. These inspections revealed serious breaches of the facility’s integrated environmental permit, leading to the initiation of formal enforcement actions by the relevant authorities.
The inspections, which took place both within the plant and in its surrounding areas, identified several sources of emissions that exceeded permitted levels. Investigators noted uncontrolled and diffuse gas releases from various sections of the boiler house and gas duct system, alongside emissions from designated discharge points. Monitoring data confirmed that pollutant concentrations were surpassing allowable thresholds at multiple locations.
The Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water in Sofia reported that certain exhaust gases generated during the plant’s operations were not being properly managed through required treatment systems, including desulfurization units. Instead, these gases were released directly into the atmosphere due to compromised infrastructure, constituting a direct violation of established environmental standards.
<pThis incident is part of a broader pattern of compliance issues at the facility. Earlier in April, authorities had already commenced another investigation related to air pollution following a previous unannounced inspection. Consequently, an administrative penalty process has been initiated, with sanctions anticipated within the legally mandated timeframe.
In response to these findings, the inspectorate has announced plans to intensify monitoring activities at the Bobov Dol plant. This move aims to ensure adherence to environmental regulations and mitigate the risk of future emissions violations, highlighting the ongoing challenges in maintaining compliance within Bulgaria’s energy sector.
