Dr. Lyubomira Gancheva: Nuclear Energy Must be Developed Responsibly and Effectively, Strengthening Bulgaria's Economy and Energy Security
“Electricity demand is expected to increase significantly in the coming decades. The rapid uptake of AI, data centres, digital infrastructure, electrified transport and modern industry will require increasing volumes of reliable, affordable and low-carbon electricity. In this situation, the real question is not whether nuclear energy has a future in Bulgaria, but how to accelerate its development responsibly and in a way that strengthens energy security,” stated Deputy Minister of Energy Dr. Lyubomira Gancheva before the participants in the third seminar under project FIRST which examines the possibilities of integrating small modular reactors into Bulgaria’s energy mix. The forum was organized by the University of National and World Economy and the US State Department.
According to Dr. Gancheva, small modular reactors are increasingly seen worldwide as a promising addition to the future energy mix. They offer flexible opportunities not only for electricity generation, but also for industrial heat, hydrogen production, district heating and the development of new technological ecosystems.
“The successful deployment of any modern nuclear technology is much more than engineering; it requires strong institutions, a predictable regulatory framework, sustainable funding mechanisms, public trust and highly skilled staff,” Dr. Gancheva emphasized.
In this context, Bulgaria pragmatically approaches the possibilities for the deployment of small modular reactors. We have more than fifty years of experience in nuclear energy, which plays a central role in our energy security, our economic development and our position as a reliable electricity producer in the region.
Dr. Gancheva also focused on the key role of universities and research institutions for long-term leadership of Bulgaria in sustainable, competitive, carbon-free electricity generation: “The development of future engineers, economists, energy experts and regulators is just as important as technology itself,” she said, adding that Bulgaria's ability to remain a leader in nuclear energy will depend on the strength of human capital.
Deputy Minister Gancheva also focused on the work of the Ministry of Energy on a new long-term energy strategy. “Our objective is clear: ensure energy security, affordability, competitiveness and successful decarbonisation, while maintaining a balanced and technology-neutral approach. Nuclear energy will continue to be an essential part of this process,” she concluded.
Photos: University of National and World Economy
