The Bulgarian Commission for Energy and Water Regulation (KEVR) has sanctioned a 3.69% increase in the wholesale natural gas price, effective February 2026. This adjustment elevates the price to approximately 32.3 euros/MWh, excluding VAT and excise duties. This decision follows a 3.3% decrease in the wholesale price that was approved for January, indicating a shift in the regulatory landscape.
While the wholesale price is set to rise, the impact on most household consumers will be moderated, with increases capped at around 2%. KEVR’s intervention was prompted by concerns regarding certain gas volumes submitted by Bulgargaz, which risked complicating the distinction between regulated supply and market-driven trading. For the first time, KEVR has taken steps to adjust the quantities proposed by the public supplier, eliminating last-minute volumes that could adversely affect consumers relying on regulated pricing.
This regulatory action underscores KEVR’s commitment to its mandate of protecting households and other regulated consumers. By prioritizing stability in the regulated market, KEVR aims to ensure that pricing mechanisms remain as affordable as possible for these users amidst fluctuating market conditions.
In conjunction with the price hike, KEVR has announced plans to revise secondary rules related to gas price regulation. These amendments are designed to align more closely with the objectives outlined in the Energy Act, aiming to mitigate similar challenges in future regulatory processes.
Despite this increase, KEVR has highlighted that the new gas price remains significantly below historical levels. The February 2026 price is nearly 25% lower than it was in February 2025, and approximately 12% lower than February 2024, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain consumer affordability in a volatile energy market.
