The National Electricity Company (NEK) is moving to upgrade five hydropower plants with battery energy storage system (BESS) technology according to local reports, partially confirmed by announcements on NEK's website.
How will Bulgaria's first hybrid hydropower plant work?
A pilot project at Vacha 1 hydropower plant will combine generation and storage technologies, making it Bulgaria's first hybrid hydropower plant. Similar systems are planned for four additional facilities. Sign up for our weekly news round-up!
Will Nek reopen the largest pumped-storage hydropower plant in the Balkans?
These agreements mark a significant step forward in the restoration of the largest pumped-storage hydropower plant in the Balkans, with both units slated for repair in parallel during 2025. NEK has engaged Toshiba Corporation, the designer and original equipment manufacturer of the plant, to repair Hydro Unit 1.
Will battery energy storage be added to Vacha 1 Hydropower Plant?
The pilot project for adding battery energy storage to the Vacha 1 hydropower plant, reconstructed in 2023, is planned for completion by the end of the year, the article reads. The 14 MW facility was built in 1933. Vacha 1 is part of the Dospat-Vacha cascade in Bulgaria's south. The battery segment would be 10 MWh.
Will Nek add battery storage capacity at other hydropower plants?
In addition to the Vacha 1 pilot project, NEK is planning to add significant battery storage capacity at other hydropower plants. The Devin hydropower plant (88 MW), located upstream from Vacha 1, is set to receive a BESS with a minimum capacity of 56.4 MWh, at an investment of EUR 13.2 million.
Why do we need energy storage solutions in Bulgaria?
ablish a reliable energy system with greater share of intermittent generation. In the context of Bulgaria's energy landscape, energy storage solutions present a diverse array of benefits to various stakeholders stemming fro its unique ability to time-shift energy and rapidly respond when called upon. The applic
What is the largest hydro power plant in Southeast Europe?
With 864 MW in a generating mode and 788 MW in a pumping mode, Chaira PSHPP is the biggest pump-storage hydro power plant in Southeast Europe. It has four hydro units - each of them of 216 MW in a generating mode and 197 MW in a pumping mode.