Minister of Economy, Investments and Industry Alexander Poulev and Energy Minister Iva Petrova Thursday announced a package of measures worth EUR 2 billion to support industry, businesses, and households over the high energy prices. The measures were presented after a meeting with employer organizations and trade unions at the Economy Ministry, according to BTA.

Of the total amount, EUR 1.5 billion will come from the Electricity System Security Fund, and EUR 500 million will be provided by the Bulgarian Development Bank.

The permissible amount of aid for energy-intensive enterprises will increase from 50% to 70% of electricity costs that can be covered under the state aid measure about which the European Commission has been notified, Poulev said.

The Bulgarian Development Bank (BDB) will provide additional aid of EUR 15 per megawatt-hour to non-household consumers, said Supervisory Board Chair Delyana Ivanova. She clarified that payments will also be made for October due to high electricity prices. Poulev said that individual support needs are yet to be assessed.

The two ministers reiterated that electricity and heating prices for household consumers will not increase. The package also provides for EUR 10 million in assistance for households that use natural gas during the winter. Petrova stated that Bulgargaz will continue to supply natural gas to Bulgarian industry at competitive prices.

Poulev said that the measures will not burden the state budget and will help curb inflation. He cited the war in Ukraine and the conflict in Iran as among the upheavals that have put pressure on international energy markets. In his words, Bulgarian businesses remain competitive, but under these conditions, the State must support them and households.