AES Bulgaria announced on Friday that it must initiate a controlled and safe shutdown of the plant, placing it into a conservation mode. This action is necessitated by the expiration of the long-term power purchase agreement between TPP AES Galabovo and the National Electricity Company (NEK). AES Bulgaria stated that this measure represents a responsible approach to safeguarding the facility and maintaining potential for future operations.
The statement addressed reports of mass layoffs at the plant, which were circulated by regional labor offices on Thursday. The company indicated that future employment opportunities at the plant will be contingent upon its evolving operational status, adding that it has maintained transparency with staff regarding the conservation process and has treated affected employees respectfully. Furthermore, AES Bulgaria confirmed that it has notified Mini Maritsa-East, as the contract for lignite coal supply for electricity generation is set to expire concurrently.
In its official statement, the company emphasized that it is engaged in continuous dialogue with Bulgarian authorities and relevant stakeholders. The goal of these discussions is to explore potential development opportunities that could enable the AES Galabovo Thermal Power Plant to continue supporting Bulgaria’s energy security and grid reliability. AES Bulgaria also clarified that these changes do not impact the Saint Nikola Wind Farm in Kavarna, which remains part of the investor’s portfolio.
Topics: #aes #plant #galabovo
