The Bulgarian Government has approved a targeted exemption from certain provisions of the European Union’s Russia-related sanctions to ensure the continued operation of the country’s only nuclear power plant.
The exemption specifically applies to select articles of Council Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 and allows NPP Kozloduy to move forward with a public procurement contract awarded to a designated contractor. Under this derogation, the plant is permitted to import iron and steel products from Russia required to fulfill the contract, as explicitly listed in the Government’s decision.
Officials stressed that the measure is driven by safety considerations, not commercial interests. Maintaining the highest standards of nuclear and technical safety, including radiation protection, workplace health, and environmental safeguards, remains a top operational priority for NPP Kozloduy. Continuous access to original components and materials from the designers and manufacturers of the installed equipment is considered essential for safe and stable plant operations.
Since a substantial portion of Kozloduy’s systems and equipment originates from Russia, certain critical supplies for the reliable functioning of units 5 and 6 can only be sourced from Russian producers. The Government noted that while some contracts with Russian suppliers are already in place, additional agreements are needed to ensure uninterrupted electricity generation and compliance with nuclear safety standards.
