OMV Petrom has taken the final investment decision for Gabare, one of the largest integrated solar and battery storage projects in Bulgaria. The project, located in the Byala Slatina region, includes a photovoltaic plant with a capacity of around 415 MWp and a battery energy storage system (BESS) with a storage capacity of around 600 MWh.

“Our first battery energy storage project marks an important step in the development of a modern energy portfolio, where renewables and flexible solutions complement each other. At the same time, we are expanding our regional footprint by developing projects in Bulgaria, in addition to Romania,” said Franck Neel, Member of the OMV Petrom Management Board, responsible for Gas & Energy.

The development of the project involves investments of around €300 million, including around €100 million for the storage component. The project is to be financed both from partners’ sources and through external financing.

The project will be developed through Dunav Solar Plant OOD, a company in which OMV Petrom holds 50%, along with Enery, which has an equal holding.

The Gabare project already has the necessary permits and is in the ready-to-build stage. Construction works will begin in the coming period, after the signing of the construction contract, and the first production is estimated for 2028.

The company also announced that there is already a PPA agreement through which OMV Petrom will acquire 50% of the future production of the solar park.