AES Bulgaria announced on Friday that it must initiate a controlled and safe shutdown of the plant, placing it into 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 characterized this measure as the responsible course of action to safeguard the facility and maintain potential for future operations.
The statement addressed reports of mass layoffs at the plant, which had been reported by regional labor offices on Thursday. The company indicated that future employment at the plant will correlate with its evolving operational status, confirming that it has kept staff informed about the conservation process while treating affected employees respectfully. Furthermore, AES Bulgaria noted that it has proactively informed Mini Maritsa-East, as the contract for lignite coal supply for electricity generation is set to expire concurrently.
The company stated it remains in continuous dialogue with Bulgarian authorities and relevant stakeholders to explore potential development opportunities. These discussions aim to determine how the AES Galabovo Thermal Power Plant can continue supporting Bulgaria’s energy security and grid reliability. AES Bulgaria clarified that these operational changes do not impact the Saint Nikola Wind Farm in Kavarna, which remains part of the investor’s portfolio.
Topics: #aes #plant #galabovo
