The Government of Bulgaria has approved a special exemption from European Union sanctions rules, allowing the nuclear power plant Kozloduy to procure essential materials from Russia required for the safe operation of its nuclear facilities.
The decision, adopted by the Council of Ministers, enables the country’s only nuclear power plant to sign a public procurement contract with a selected supplier and import specific iron and steel products needed for project execution. The exemption will remain in force for the duration of the relevant contractual arrangements.
Officials stressed that the measure is driven primarily by nuclear safety and operational stability. Continuous access to original components, spare parts, and specialized equipment is considered essential for the reliable functioning of NPP Kozloduy. Many of the plant’s systems were originally designed and manufactured in Russia, making alternative sourcing in some cases technically challenging.
The government emphasized that uninterrupted deliveries from original designers and manufacturers play a key role in ensuring nuclear safety standards, radiation protection, environmental compliance, and safe working conditions. For this reason, certain maintenance and operational contracts for units 5 and 6 must continue to involve Russian suppliers.
The Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant is a central pillar of Bulgaria’s energy system, generating more than one-third of the country’s total electricity output. It is considered a cornerstone of national energy security and plays a vital role in maintaining the stability of the Bulgarian power grid.
By granting this derogation, authorities aim to ensure that essential maintenance and operational activities continue without interruption, safeguarding the continuous, safe, and efficient operation of the country’s largest electricity-producing facility.
