Bulgaria’s energy transition policy is at a crossroads. Despite its ambitious renewable energy targets, the country remains locked in a state-dominated, fossil-fuel-dependent model, where the delayed power market liberalisation, the unpredictable regulatory environment, and the widespread disinformation campaign against new low-carbon technologies have all undermined the investor confidence. While the rapid growth of solar photovoltaic plants and battery storage facilities reveals a strong private-sector momentum, the absence of wind energy projects, the slow uptake of digital solutions in grids management, and the lack of sufficient flexible storage capacity, creates new risks for the balance of the energy system, worsens the affordability of supply, and the long-term energy security. 

The current analysis argues that Bulgaria’s clean-energy transition, if managed strategically and consistently, can strengthen both energy security and industrial competitiveness. To achieve this, Bulgaria must complete the liberalisation of energy markets, remove revenue caps for power producers, and, more generally, rebuild investor trust. Bulgaria needs to modernise and digitalise the power grid to support flexibility and cross-border trade. The government should also unlock the vast onshore and offshore wind potential through streamlined permitting, clear regulation, and regional cooperation. Finally, targeted investment in battery storage and clean-tech manufacturing can position Bulgaria as a key player in Europe’s renewable energy supply chain.