The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) approved a loan of up to €50 million to Tenevo Solar Technologies EAD to construct and operate a merchant solar photovoltaic (PV) plant in southeastern Bulgaria.
The Tenevo plant is expected to generate over 300 GWh of electricity annually, contributing significantly to Bulgaria’s green energy transition by reducing carbon emissions by 250,000 tonnes annually. In addition, Raiffeisen Bank International will provide parallel financing of €53 million, bringing the total financial package for the project to €103 million.
Support for Bulgaria’s Green Transition
The EBRD is financing the project through its InvestEU Framework, promoting sustainable investments and aligning projects with EU standards. This funding is the first use of the InvestEU guarantee in Bulgaria.
The Tenevo solar plant will add 238 MW to Bulgaria’s grid, with plans for an additional 250 MW storage. This project is crucial for Bulgaria’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 and reducing dependence on coal-generated power.
The plant will be Bulgaria’s first renewable facility over 100 MW to sell all output directly to the market. The project underscores the EBRD’s commitment to Bulgaria’s green energy transition, addressing regional energy security amid the Ukraine conflict.
Tenevo Solar Technologies EAD designated the project Gender SMART, showcasing its commitment to advancing gender equality in Bulgaria’s energy sector. The company has pledged to sign the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles to further its efforts in gender inclusivity.Also read: EBRD and EU Expand Green Economy Funding for Kosovo’s MSMEs
Strengthening Private Sector Involvement
Tenevo Solar Technologies EAD is a joint venture between Renalfa IPP and Eurowind Energy, focused on renewable energy development. Together, they are working to deliver this landmark renewable energy project in Bulgaria.
Kalina Pelovska, executive director of Tenevo Solar Technologies said, “We are excited to partner with the EBRD and Raiffeisen Bank International on this ground-breaking project, which reflects our shared vision for a more sustainable future in Bulgaria. This collaboration represents a key landmark for the renewable energy investment community in the region, and we look forward to working together to bring our plans to reality.”
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Renewable Energy and Bulgaria’s Decarbonisation Goals
Bulgaria aims to increase renewable energy’s share in electricity consumption to 34.7% by 2030, up from 16% in 2020. In the past two years, installing 1.3 GW of additional solar PV capacity reflects growing interest in the sector. Bulgaria’s decarbonisation efforts advanced through its first renewable energy tender with battery storage, granting funding for 3 GW solar.
This initiative is part of Bulgaria’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, aiming for 3.5 GW of new renewable capacity by 2026. The EBRD actively supports Bulgaria’s renewable energy goals, which are crucial for the country’s long-term sustainable development.