Bulgaria achieved an absolute first in the energy sector on June 20, 2025: for the first time, solar energy produced in a specific time frame exceeded the national electricity consumption.
According to data published by the Electricity System Operator (ESO) and the ENTSO-E network, between 10:00 and 11:00 in the morning, photovoltaic panels generated 2,935 MW, while consumption was 2,917 MW.
In the following hour, production increased to 3,230 MW, surpassing consumption by 313 MW.
Massive export of solar energy, but limited domestic consumption
Although the total electricity production was high - over 6,500 MW in both analyzed hours - a significant portion, between 3,000 and 3,500 MW, was exported.
The domestic market could not absorb the entire quantity of solar energy due to long-term supply contracts with major traditional producers: thermal power plants, the Kozloduy nuclear power plant, and the National Electric Company (NEC).
A big step towards green energy
The event is considered a defining moment for Bulgaria's transition to renewable sources.
Meglena Rusenova, the president of the Bulgarian Photovoltaic Association, stated that the achievement is a strategic one. She emphasized that the success will strengthen the country's capacity to meet its decarbonization goals and attract new investments in the green energy sector.