“Because of the rising prices on the energy exchange businesses will receive compensations from the state for December, as well as for the first quarter of 2022,” Minister of Energy Alexander Nikolov announced.

The companies which have long-term contracts at a base price of at least 185 Leva (EUR 95) per MWh will receive compensations of 75% of the difference between the electricity exchange price and the price estimate, though not more than 30% of the actual price. Compensations are also envisaged for the district heating utility companies because of the rise in the price of natural gas. The measures announced have to receive approval from the European Commission which has to determine whether the assistance breaks competition rules or not.