AES Bulgaria issued a press release on Friday confirming that it must proceed with a controlled and safe shutdown of its facility, placing the plant into conservation mode. This measure is necessitated by the expiration of the long-term power purchase agreement between TPP AES Galabovo and the National Electricity Company (NEK). According to the statement, this approach is deemed responsible for protecting the physical assets of the plant and preserving potential for future operations.
The announcement addresses recent reports of mass layoffs circulating in the region. AES Bulgaria stated that future employment opportunities at the Galabovo facility will be contingent upon its evolving operational status, adding that the company has maintained transparency with its workforce 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 the supply of lignite coal required for electricity generation is set to expire concurrently.
In its official statement, the company emphasized that it is engaged in ongoing dialogue with Bulgarian authorities and relevant stakeholders. The objective of these discussions is to explore potential development avenues that could allow the AES Galabovo Thermal Power Plant to continue contributing to Bulgaria’s energy security and grid reliability. The company also clarified that these operational changes do not impact the Saint Nikola Wind Farm, which remains part of the investor’s portfolio.
Topics: #aes #plant #galabovo
