The Bulgarian Commission for Energy and Water Regulation (KEVR) has sanctioned a 3.3% reduction in the wholesale natural gas price, effective January 2026. This decision aligns with the proposal submitted by the public supplier Bulgargaz in mid-December. Following this adjustment, the wholesale price will be approximately 31.2 euros/MWh, exclusive of VAT and excise duties. This marks a continuation of KEVR’s trend, having previously approved a 4.3% decrease for December.
The supply framework for January is significantly supported by Azerbaijani gas, which is delivered through the Bulgaria-Greece interconnector under a long-term contract. This arrangement is crucial as it covers a substantial portion of Bulgaria’s domestic demand, thereby maintaining competitive pricing in the market. Additionally, Bulgargaz has secured LNG deliveries for January via agreements with traders selected through a tender process, ensuring advantageous delivery pricing and payment terms.
Moreover, the supply strategy is bolstered by withdrawals from the Chiren underground gas storage facility. This enables Bulgargaz to fulfill its commitments to retail suppliers, district heating operators, and industrial clients under existing bilateral contracts. With winter volumes already secured and assuming stable regional demand, analysts predict that gas prices will likely remain near current levels, providing price stability for Bulgarian consumers.
