How many pumped storage hydropower plants are there in Bulgaria?

Bulgaria currently has two operating pumped storage hydropower plants and projects for two more under development, while unit 2 in Chaira may get back online by the end of the year The pumped storage plant is part of the Belmeken-Sestrimo-Chaira hydropower complex, Bulgaria’s largest.

Where is the pumped storage plant located in Bulgaria?

The pumped storage plant is part of the Belmeken-Sestrimo-Chaira hydropower complex, Bulgaria’s largest. NEK marked the completion of the rehabilitation of the Belmeken pumped storage hydroelectric plant in February. It consists of five units with 373.5 MW in generation capacity. Two are reversible, enabling 104 MW in pumping mode.

What is Bulgaria's third pumped storage hydroelectric system?

Bulgaria’s third pumped storage hydroelectric system is called Orphey. Installed inside the Dospat dam in the country’s south, it comprises four turbines with just under 164.8 MW in total. One unit can work both ways, where the pumping mode capacity is 47.4 MW, NEK’s data shows.

Why is Bulgaria focusing on energy storage in its decarbonization efforts?

Bulgaria is leaning strongly on energy storage in its decarbonization efforts. Such systems are essential for the integration of wind and solar power as they are intermittent – depending on weather. The country had a hard time navigating the recent energy crisis since major breakdowns took the Chaira pumped storage hydropower plant offline in 2022.

Does Bulgaria need energy storage?

The facility has been out of order for more than two years. Bulgaria is leaning strongly on energy storage in its decarbonization efforts. Such systems are essential for the integration of wind and solar power as they are intermittent – depending on weather.