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Korea – Bulgaria Energy Forum

Dr. Eng. Veselin Todorov, Chairman of the Solar Academy Bulgaria Association, will participate in the Korean-Bulgarian Energy Forum, which will take place on November 1 from 09:30 to 13:00 in Sofia. The event will be held in the “Vasil Levski” Hall at the Hyatt Regency Sofia Hotel and is organized by the Atlantic Club of Bulgaria, the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Bulgaria.

The program will be opened by Cho Ji Yi, Counsellor of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Bulgaria, and Lee Dong Hyun, General Director of the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency. The opening panel will also feature Vladimir Malinov, Acting Minister of Energy, and Delyan Dobrev, Chairman of the Energy Committee in the 50th National Assembly.

Dr. Eng. Veselin Todorov will be a speaker in the panel “The Path to a Greener Future.” Other participants in this panel include Nikolay Pavlov, Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry; Dr. Ivaylo Naydenov, Executive Director of the Bulgarian Federation of Industrial Energy Consumers (BFIEC); and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Atanas Georgiev, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski.”

In the panel “Energy Transformation through Energy Storage,” speakers will include Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ivan Ivanov, Chairman of the Energy and Water Regulatory Commission; Martin Georgiev, Executive Director of the National Electric Company; Ivan Hinovski, Chairman of the Bulgarian Energy and Mining Forum; and Nikola Gazdov, Chairman of the Association for the Production, Storage, and Trade of Electricity (APSTE).

The panel on nuclear energy cooperation between Korea and Bulgaria will feature Petyo Ivanov, Executive Director of Kozloduy NPP – New Capacities, Eng. Georgi Samandov, Acting Deputy Minister of Energy, Milko Kovachev, an expert from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and a representative from Hyundai Engineering & Construction.

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Solar Academy is a Partner of the Leading Renewable Energy Event – CISOLAR 2024

The leading event for the solar energy and energy storage sectors, the Sustainable Energy Expo: CISOLAR 2024, will take place at Laminor Arena in Bucharest, Romania. This year’s exhibition, which will be held from October 15 to 17, 2024, is expected to be comprehensive and dynamic, and it is going to bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators from around the world.

PhD. Eng. Veselin Todorov, Chairman of the Solar Academy Bulgaria, will be one of the speakers at the event. With experience in the field of solar energy and sustainable technologies, PhD. Todorov will share his expert knowledge and perspectives on the future of the solar industry in Bulgaria and the region.

CISOLAR 2024 continues its tradition as a key business platform for the solar energy sector in Central and Eastern Europe. For the past 12 years, CISOLAR has brought together market leaders and showcased leading companies in photovoltaics, services, technologies, and equipment from around the world. This year’s exhibition and conference will focus on the latest trends and technologies in solar energy, with a spotlight on emerging markets in Central and Eastern Europe. Participants will gain valuable insights from industry leaders and have the opportunity to explore the most advanced products, technologies, and services.

Running concurrently with CISOLAR 2024, GREENBATTERY 2024, the energy storage conference and exhibition for Central and Eastern Europe, will highlight the latest advancements in energy storage technologies. This event will cover a wide range of topics, including sustainability, technologies, hydrogen, electric vehicle infrastructure, electrification, business opportunities, and energy security policies. GREENBATTERY 2024 is expected to be a key event for professionals and enthusiasts in the energy storage sector.

During the Sustainable Energy Expo 2024 (October 15-17, Bucharest), the CISOLAR 2024 and GREENBATTERY 2024 awards will also take place, honoring outstanding achievements in the solar energy, energy storage, and sustainable technology sectors. Categories include: Best Solar Panel Manufacturer, Best Solar Inverter, Best Solar Project of the Year, Best Solar Energy Storage Solution, Best Solar EPC Company, Best Photovoltaic System Installation Company, Best Solar Software/AI Solution, Best Renewable Energy Company of the Year, Best Innovation in Energy Technologies, and Best Energy Storage Solution. The winners will be announced on October 16.

Sponsors of the event include Jinko ESS, SolarSK, Voltaj, and Recom Technologies. More information can be found at: CISOLAR 2024

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Deputy Minister Marieta Georgieva: The new list of professions will meet the future needs of business

This was stated by the Deputy Minister of Education and Science during the second edition of the career forum and exhibition “Recharge your career”, dedicated to the renewable energy industry.

19 April 2024, Sofia – The new list of professions for professional education and training is planned for public consultation in June. It will contain professions and qualifications that will meet the future needs of business and the development of the economy in our country. This was stated by the Deputy Minister of Education and Science Marieta Georgieva during the career forum “Recharge Your Career” 2024, which was held yesterday in Sofia.

“The sector skills councils we are now forming will lay the foundation for building a symbiosis between business, vocational and higher education, as well as employers’ organisations, trade unions and industry organisations’ associations. Our goal is to develop policies at sectoral level and the qualifications that are developing to be created with the leading role of the business and to reflect their needs and requirements, “added Deputy Minister Georgieva.

Dr. Eng. Veselin Todorov – Chairman of the Solar Academy Bulgaria Association and co-organizer of the forum, also stressed the importance of a collective approach. “The RES sector offers many highly qualified positions that represent an opportunity for Bulgaria to establish itself as a leading center of energy innovation in Europe. Through cooperation between business, education and power, we can prepare young people for successful participation in the labor market and increase the national gross domestic product.”

This year’s edition of “Recharge Your Career” brought together leading figures from the renewable energy sector in order to encourage dialogue between business, the education system and industry organizations to provide qualified staff and development opportunities. For the second consecutive year, the forum provided an opportunity for dozens of young talents willing to work in the field to create contacts and draw on the experience of established energy experts, which is key to achieving the country’s energy goals.

“Businesses nowadays are moving at an incredible speed, especially in the renewable energy sector, where innovation and new technologies are emerging every day. Therefore, it is essential to organize such events to reach more young people and motivate them to think about their future and career from their early school and student years,” said Maxim Behar, CEO of M3 Communications Group, Inc. and co-organizer of Recharge Your Career.

This year the Forum was supported by the Ministry of Education and Science, UNWE, Technical University – Sofia, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the National Branch Organization for Electric Mobility.  The winners of the first of its kind competition in Bulgaria for the preparation of a model of a photovoltaic power plant were announced at the event, with schools from all over the country participating. The grand prize went to the National Vocational Technical High School “Sandor Petőfi” in Sofia. Razgrad. This competition was organized by the company Enery and the Association “Solar Academy Bulgaria” in order to stimulate more young talents to pursue careers in the renewable energy industry.

The event was held in partnership with Enery and SUNOTEC, and partners were also Sonnis Energy Bulgaria, Smart Solar and VVT Engineering. It was also supported by the renowned media: Manager.bg, Banker.bg, Novinite.bg, Econ.bg, Economic.bg, ESGnews.bg, 3e-news.net, Kaldata.com and Renewable Market Watch.

For further information, please visit: berenewable.org.

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About Solar Academy Bulgaria Association:

Solar Academy Bulgaria was founded at the end of 2021 as a response to the need for more awareness, building a sustainable strategy for the development of the energy sector in Bulgaria and helping education to meet the new needs of the labor market. The activity of the Association envisages the creation of information campaigns that aim to promote the advantages of renewable energy sources to future investors and society, to communicate problem areas, to support education and training in the sector. The association will implement campaigns through the use of appearances in the media, social networks, organization of conferences, seminars, open lectures, exchange of good practices with countries that have advanced in their development in the field of renewable energy and energy efficiency, and others.

For more information, please contact M3 Communications Group, Inc. by email: press@m3bg.com and tel.: 088 816 36 95.

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Solar Academy Bulgaria is a member of Solar Power Europe

The “Solar Academy Bulgaria” Association has now officially become a member of Solar Power Europe, an organization that represents the solar energy sector on a European scale.

This strategic partnership aligns with the objectives of the Solar Academy Bulgaria Association to expand its reach and collaboration within the European solar energy community. Solar Power Europe is a significant industry association that unites key stakeholders, including NGOs, businesses, policymakers, and researchers, with a common mission to advance the adoption of solar energy and shape supportive policies across Europe.

Through its affiliation with Solar Power Europe, the Solar Academy Bulgaria Association gains access to an extensive network of industry experts and a platform for advocacy, knowledge exchange, and policy formulation at the highest European echelons.

“We are thrilled to have become a member of Solar Power Europe and to be part of this dynamic community that propels the transition to renewable energy in Europe. This partnership will significantly enhance our ability to contribute to the growth of the solar energy sector in Bulgaria and establish meaningful collaborations at the European level. Membership in Solar Power Europe opens new avenues for the ‘Solar Academy Bulgaria’ Association to engage in European initiatives, projects, and working groups focused on research, development, and education in the field of solar energy,” stated Dr. Eng. Veselin Todorov, founder and chairman of the “Solar Academy Bulgaria” Association.

Solar Academy Bulgaria’s membership in Solar Power Europe underscores the shared vision of expediting the shift to clean energy and realizing a sustainable future.

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Solar Academy participated in the third edition of Energy Transition

The Association “Solar Academy Bulgaria” participated in the third edition of the Energy Transition seminar held in June. Representing the organization was Veselin Todorov, Ph.D., the chairman and founder of the Association.

The presentation delivered by Dr. Eng. Veselin Todorov focused on the crucial need for qualified personnel within the renewable energy sector. The discussion encompassed strategies for skills development, encompassing the implementation of diverse approaches and initiatives aimed at nurturing the growth of expertise. The topic delved into methods and programs designed to address the specific workforce requirements of the renewable energy field.

The presentation highlighted the significance of formulating strategies that effectively bridge these skill gaps, creating a substantial pool of proficient professionals within the realm of green energy.

Training and Internship Programs: These programs offer valuable on-the-job training and mentoring opportunities for individuals aspiring to pursue careers in the green energy field. They serve to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and the practical skills essential within the industry.

Collaboration with Educational Institutions: Forge partnerships with universities, colleges, and technical schools to seamlessly integrate renewable energy subjects into curricula. Develop specialized degree or certificate programs in green energy technologies to ensure graduates possess the requisite skills demanded by the industry.

Training Centers: The establishment of dedicated training centers provides hands-on experience and certifications in various renewable energy technologies. These centers furnish practical training in the installation, operation, and maintenance of renewable energy systems, thus bolstering the employability of new entrants.

Retraining and Upskilling Programs: Design programs catering to the transition of existing professionals from related industries into the green energy sector. By offering reskilling and upskilling opportunities, these programs address skill shortages while capitalizing on the expertise of the current workforce.

Industry-Oriented Skills Standards: Develop comprehensive skills and certification standards delineating the competencies requisite for distinct roles within the green energy sector. These standards align training initiatives with industry requisites and guarantee uniformity in workforce qualifications.

Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaboration among governmental bodies, private enterprises, and industry associations to collectively devise and execute workforce development strategies. Such partnerships provide indispensable resources, funding, and expertise to support training endeavors in harmony with industry needs.

Promotion and Awareness Campaigns: Initiate campaigns aimed at promoting careers in the green energy sector and attracting a diverse talent pool. These campaigns spotlight the advantages of working in renewable energy, present success stories, and dispel misconceptions, thereby invigorating interest in the sector.

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Participating in a discussion on “A strong and clean European industry”

How to foster a robust and eco-friendly European industry? One of the solutions lies in the European Regulation for Net Zero Emission Industry. This critical topic was deliberated upon during a roundtable discussion held at the National Assembly, spearheaded by Tsvetelina Penkova, an MEP from the Group of the Progressive Alliance in the European Parliament, and Christian Vigenin, the deputy speaker of the parliament. Eminent figures from regulatory bodies, institutions, industry, and academia lent their insights to the conversation.

The roundtable saw participation from delegates representing the Association “Solar Academy Bulgaria,” the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce, the Association of Industrial Capital in Bulgaria, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, metallurgical and cement industry associations, KNSB, the Institute for Energy Management, energy regulators, the Electricity System Operator, the non-ferrous metals industry, electricity distribution companies, the construction sector, and academia.

Setting the tone for the discussion, MEP Tsvetelina Penkova remarked, “Europe is at the forefront of innovation and new industry development. Unlike the past, our energy resources are finite. It is now imperative to seek long-term sustainable solutions.” She highlighted that legislation for net zero emissions industry is already in progress in the European Parliament, designed to bolster clean technology production within the EU. This legislative endeavor aims to attract investments, enhance market access for clean technologies, stimulate job creation, and spawn new industries. Furthermore, it is poised to heighten EU industry competitiveness and contribute to energy independence efforts.

Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly, Christian Vigenin, emphasized the significance of the unprecedented meeting between representatives from the European Parliament and the Bulgarian National Assembly. This collaboration seeks to synchronize legislative initiatives at the European and national levels, ensuring that Bulgarian interests are safeguarded in the decision-making process. Vigenin pledged the National Assembly’s vigilance and commitment to overseeing the implementation of this legislative package, fostering accountability, and aligning executive power positions with Bulgarian priorities.

MEP Tsvetelina Penkova outlined her objectives as the rapporteur for the legislation, emphasizing the imperative that by 2030, a minimum of 40% of the Union’s strategic technological capacity for producing zero net emissions technologies and components must be cultivated within the EU. Penkova underscored her dedication to advocating for the domestic production of a comprehensive range of technologies, including photovoltaics, heat pumps, batteries, electrolyzers, wind installations, sea-based renewable sources, power network technologies, sustainable fuels, and nuclear power generation technologies, with the list expanding as new innovations emerge.

Green Transition

Solar Academy participates in the third edition of the largest forum for the green transition in CEE countries 2023

Dr. Eng. Veselin Todorov, the founder and chairman of the Association “Solar Academy Bulgaria,” participated in a round table during the third edition of the Green Transition event.

In his capacity as the Chairman of the Management Board of the Association “Solar Academy Bulgaria,” Dr. Eng. Veselin Todorov took part in the round table to discuss issues and proposals from businesses in the renewable energy sector. During the discussion, he put forward several proposals, including:

Establishing a rapid, accessible, and administratively streamlined process for installing photovoltaic plants on the roofs and facades of multi-family residential buildings.

Introducing the NET METERING mechanism, which would allow consumers generating their own energy but unable to store it, to utilize the generated electricity at any time.

Rectifying Ordinance 6 concerning the connection of energy producers and customers to transmission or distribution networks. The current regulation does not align with new technologies, often hindering the connection of renewable energy sites.

Creating a mechanism to safeguard investments in renewable energy. Ambiguities in procedures, outdated legal provisions, and varying interpretations by different institutions and energy distribution companies lead to delays, non-realization, or financial losses for investors.

Reforming the Law on Energy from Renewable Sources (REEE) and introducing minimum standards and requirements for RES installers (such as photovoltaic plants) in Bulgaria. This includes categorizing plants based on type, installation method, and capacity. Establishing a professional register of renewable energy installers in Bulgaria and a register of built photovoltaic plants to ensure safe maintenance of the power transmission system.

Advocating for policies and effective mechanisms that encourage training and career opportunities in the renewable energy sector. Prioritizing state support for schools and universities providing education for RES specialists. Identifying renewable energy specialties and professions.

This year, the Green Transition forum’s organizers expanded the dialogue to focus on the necessity for cooperation and connectivity among Central and Eastern European countries in the transition to low-carbon economies and sustainable development. The event aims to foster the exchange of best practices and innovative solutions within the context of the Green Transformation of industries, green finance, and innovation development.

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Special Guest Appearance on the Program “Energy”: Addressing Workforce Needs in the Renewable Energy Sector

The demand for personnel in the renewable energy sector is projected to rise. Dr. Eng. Veselin Todorov, the chairman of “Solar Academy Bulgaria,” highlighted this at the inaugural career exhibition and professional development forum in the renewable energy industry – “Recharge Your Career.”

At the event, Vasimir Radulov, co-founder of the Balkan Hydrogen Cluster, noted that Bulgaria is currently at the forefront of hydrogen technology across the Balkan Peninsula. He also highlighted the innovative use of hydrogen as a fuel in our country, positioning it ahead of regulatory developments worldwide.

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Проведе се първото кариерно изложение и форум за професионално развитие във ВЕИ индустрията

Индустрията за възобновяема енергия, временното правителство, правителствените органи и образователните институции изграждат по-тясно сътрудничество, за създаването на квалифицирана работна сила. “Зелените професии” представляват бъдещето, а подготовката на експерти е от първостепенно значение не само за секторното развитие, но и за постигане на енергийните цели на държавата. Качествените кадри ще послужат като стимул за процеса на енергиен преход, ключово начинание за България. Това се обсъждаше по време на встъпителното издание на кариерния форум “Презареди кариерата си”, на който се представиха много млади таланти, които се стремят да оставят своя отпечатък в сектора на възобновяемата енергия.

Наталия Ефремова, заместник-министър на труда и социалната политика, подчерта необходимостта от съгласувани усилия между бизнеса и правителството в прехода към възобновяеми енергийни източници. “Иновациите трябва да бъдат оглавени от бизнеса. Те имат необходимия опит и предоставят нови знания. Без координация между частния сектор и държавата, напредъкът не може да бъде осъществен”, подчерта тя.

Д-р инж. Веселин Тодоров, председател на Сдружение “Соларна Академия България” и съорганизатор на форума, също подчерта значимостта на колективния подход. “За да успее планът за възстановяване и устойчивост, сътрудничеството между бизнеса, правителството, образованието и медиите е наложително. Само чрез тази симбиоза можем да постигнем споделени зелени цели.”

Максим Бехар, главен изпълнителен директор на M3 Communications Group, Inc. и съорганизатор на кариерния форум “Презареди кариерата си”, отбеляза: “Докато намирането на квалифициран персонал поставя предизвикателства в различни съвременни сектори, търсенето на хора, желаещи да се развиват във ВЕИ индустрията, става все по-осезаемо. Ето защо, чрез този форум, ние се стремим да се справим с този недостиг на кадри в бързо развиващия се сектор на възобновяемата енергия. “

“Презареди кариерата си” събра фирми, институции и търсещи работа с цел насърчаване на по-задълбочена комуникация между ВЕИ индустрията, образованието и институциите за съвместно разработване на иновативни и практически подходи за учене и създаване на зелени решения.

Встъпителното издание на форума се проведе с специалното съдействие на CSL Installers, а основен партньор беше HRS България. VVT Engineering, Solaris Montage и Hecsolar също бяха партньори на събитието.

Събитието получи специална подкрепа от Нов български университет, Междууниверситетския център за развитие на кариерата към УНСС, Технически университет – София, Технически университет – Габрово, Русенски университет “Ангел Кънчев”, Стопански факултет на СУ “Св. Климент Охридски” и Професионална гимназия по електротехника и електроника – Пловдив.

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The first career exhibition and forum for professional development in the RES industry was held with strong interest

The renewable energy industry, interim government, governmental bodies, and educational institutions are forging closer collaboration to cultivate a skilled workforce. „Green professions“ represent the future, and the training of experts holds paramount importance not only for sectoral development but also for achieving the state’s energy objectives. Quality personnel will serve as the impetus behind the energy transition process, a crucial endeavor for Bulgaria. These insights emerged during the inaugural edition of the „Recharge Your Career“ career forum, which provided numerous young talents aspiring to make their mark in the renewable energy sector with the chance to glean wisdom from seasoned experts in the field.

A distinguished guest, Natalia Efremova, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Policy, emphasized the necessity for a concerted effort between businesses and the government in transitioning to renewable energy sources. „Innovation must be spearheaded by businesses. They possess expertise and drive new knowledge. Without coordination between the private sector and the state, progress remains elusive,“ she emphasized.

Dr. Eng. Veselin Todorov, Chairman of the „Solar Academy Bulgaria“ association and co-organizer of the forum, also underscored the collective approach’s significance. „For the recovery and resilience plan to succeed, collaboration among businesses, government, education, and the media is imperative. Only through this synergy can we achieve shared green objectives.“

Maxim Behar, CEO of M3 Communications Group, Inc. and co-organizer of the „Recharge Your Career“ career forum, noted, „While sourcing qualified personnel poses challenges across various modern sectors, the demand for individuals eager to thrive in the RES industry is becoming increasingly palpable. Therefore, through this forum, we aim to address this personnel shortage in the rapidly evolving renewable energy sector.“

„Recharge Your Career“ brought together businesses, institutions, and job seekers with the objective of fostering deeper dialogue among the RES industry, education, and institutions to collaboratively devise innovative and practical approaches to learning and green solutions creation.

The inaugural forum edition was held in general partnership with CSL Installers, and the principal partner was HRS Bulgaria. VVT Engineering, Solaris Montage, and Hecsolar were also event partners.

The event received special support from New Bulgarian University, the Interuniversity Center for Career Development at UNSS, Technical University – Sofia, Technical University – Gabrovo, Ruse University „Angel Kanchev,“ Faculty of Economics at Sofia University „St. Kliment Ohridski,“ and Professional High School of Electrical Engineering and Electronics – Plovdiv.

Media backing for the inaugural career forum dedicated to the RES industry was provided by: BTA, Telegraf, Banker.bg, Econ.bg, and Novinite.bg.

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An information meeting about the energy efficiency programs will be held in Elin Pelin

An event titled “Green Energy for Business – Benefits and Financing” will be held on Wednesday, February 8th, at 4:30 p.m. The event is organized by the Association “Solar Academy Bulgaria” in collaboration with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and the Municipality of Elin Pelin. It will take place on the 1st floor of the Elin Pelin Municipality building, in the hall of the Municipal Council.

The event aims to provide information about energy efficiency programs for businesses and citizens. The main topics to be discussed include the advantages of solar energy for businesses, the stages and challenges in constructing solar power plants, and the financing options available through various European programs.

This event is intended for investors, companies, organizations, and citizens interested in building photovoltaic plants and achieving energy independence. Industry experts specializing in financing, design, and construction of photovoltaic plants will share valuable insights into the construction process, financing opportunities through European programs, and potential risks associated with this type of investment.

Dr. Eng. Veselin Todorov, a prominent expert in photovoltaic plant design and construction, and founder and chairman of the Association “Solar Academy Bulgaria,” will discuss the benefits of renewable energy sources and key considerations when building solar plants. Galya Menova, owner of “HUMANCONSULTING” EOOD, and an expert in European programs and projects, will shed light on upcoming funding opportunities under the Recovery and Sustainability Plan. Rositsa Chopeva, a seasoned financial expert with over a decade of experience in project financing for photovoltaic plants and a partner at xFigureFinance, will cover topics related to non-European financing and potential investor benefits. Stoyanka Kitik from Inteko Invest will present the opportunities under the Recovery and Sustainability Plan and the Rural Development Program (2023 – 2027). Tsvetan Simeonov, Chairman of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), will also contribute to the discussions.

The event is open to all and admission is free. It welcomes individuals interested in investing in solar systems.

Nova News

NOVA News: The procedures for building small photovoltaic plants have been simplified

The procedures for the construction of small photovoltaic plants have been simplified by introducing a real notification regime. Power plants for own use will be built without a building permit when installing power up to 20KW.

“We have been expecting this change since 2018. Since then, the directive has been to ease the regime. In the West this is happening, in Bulgaria 5 years later there is progress. The change is entirely in the service of the public, and in particular of residential users, as it enables residential users to put their photovoltaic plants on the roofs without the need to wait for the long and cumbersome procedure for a building permit”, explained Eng. Veselin Todorov – Chairman of the Solar Academy Bulgaria Association.

This opens up a considerable market both for the installation of photovoltaic plants and for the independence of household users from the energy transmission system.

“Until now, the procedure has been difficult and complicated. And the most complicated part was related to obtaining the so-called construction permit, since the photovoltaic plants in Bulgaria have until now been subject to a construction permit, regardless of whether they are 1, 2, 5 or 100 KW”, added Engineer Veselin Todorov.

See a recording of the interview on the NOVA News website>>

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BCCI and experts offer RES financing for businesses

The Council of Branch Organizations at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) is hosting an event titled “Solar Energy for Business – Implementation Stages and Financing Opportunities.” The hybrid event is scheduled for January 25, from 15:00 to 17:00, taking place in hall “A” at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), as well as being broadcast online.

The event will commence with opening remarks from Tsvetan Simeonov, Chairman of the Management Board of BCCI, and Gena Sabeva, Chairman of the Council of Branch Organizations at BCCI. Denitsa Nikolova and Maria Hristova from EUConsult.BG, a pioneering company, will discuss the fundamental prerequisites for companies to develop projects under the European program “Construction of New RES for Own Consumption in Combination with Local Energy Storage Facilities in Enterprises” in Bulgaria. They specialize in preparing and managing projects for grant funding from national and European sources.

Attendees will gain insights into the solar power plant construction process, along with associated risks and challenges, through presentations by Rositsa Chopeva and Roza Ivanova from xFigureFinance. This independent consulting firm boasts a decade of experience in the RES sector and involvement in projects with an installed capacity exceeding 400 MWp across Bulgaria and neighboring countries.

Eng. Veselin Todorov, Chairman of the Association “Solar Academy Bulgaria,” a renewable energy expert, and owner of VVT Engineering, will provide practical insights into the advantages of constructing photovoltaic plants. He will present real-world examples and address administrative steps and potential obstacles encountered during the photovoltaic plant construction process.

The event, “Solar Energy for Business – Implementation Stages and Financing Opportunities,” targets investors, companies, and organizations interested in establishing photovoltaic plants and achieving energy independence. Field experts specializing in financing, design, and construction of photovoltaic plants will deliver valuable insights into the various phases of solar plant construction, current financing opportunities through European programs, and potential challenges associated with this type of investment.

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Engineer Veselin Todorov presented the topic “Green energy as an engine for business”

Eng. Veselin Todorov, the founder and chairman of the Association “Solar Academy Bulgaria” and owner of VVT Engineering, was among the guest lecturers at the annual training organized by the Council of Branch Organizations at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). The training was conducted under the “Healthy and Safe Working Conditions” Program and was attended by various branch organizations that are members of the Council.

Lachezar Iskrov, Deputy Chairman of the Council of Branch Organizations at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, opened and led the event.

Tsvetan Simeonov, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, welcomed the participants and provided updates on recent developments, including the adoption of the revised budget by the Parliament. He shared the Chamber’s positions on defending the interests of employers, addressing compensation issues for businesses in light of rising energy prices, and addressing concerns related to raw material costs. Participating branch organizations discussed common challenges within their respective sectors and expressed the need for Chamber support to overcome these challenges.

The topic “Green Energy as a Catalyst for Business,” presented by Eng. Veselin Todorov, stirred lively discussions. The lecturer underscored the necessity for legislative changes within the regulatory framework concerning the establishment of photovoltaic power plants for internal consumption within enterprises. These changes, he emphasized, would enhance the feasibility of photovoltaic projects and streamline investment procedures in this sector. The advantages of renewable energy sources and their benefits were highlighted. The importance of training highly skilled professionals in the realm of renewable energy sources was emphasized. Eng. Todorov showcased examples of implemented solar installations and shared the positive outcomes of their operation. He also noted an increased business interest in photovoltaics driven by reduced electricity costs.

As part of the “Healthy and Safe Working Conditions” training, the following presentations were also delivered:

A presentation titled “Safe and Healthy Working Conditions – Musculoskeletal Disorders: Risks and Prevention in the Workplace” was given by Chief Assistant Dr. Vlayko Vodenicharov from the Department of Health and Medical Sciences at the Institute of Hygiene at MA. The speaker introduced participants to the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work’s (EU-OSHA) 2020-2022 campaign, themed “Healthy Places Lighten the Load.” The presentation explained the concept of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), their primary causes linked to work activities, and the impact of immediate work environments. Physical and biomechanical risk factors contributing to MSDs were discussed, accompanied by examples and strategies for prevention and mitigation of these factors.

Engineer Mario Ninov, a lecturer at VTU “Todor Kableshkov,” delivered a presentation titled “Healthy and Safe Working Conditions in the Transport Sector.” This presentation underscored the essence, significance, and utmost importance of providing health and safety training across all sectors of the economy. The primary goal is to prevent adverse consequences stemming from hazardous and harmful workplace factors, thus eliminating risks. The lecturer categorized safety and health measures at work based on their effectiveness.

The presentation highlighted that ensuring healthy and safe working conditions is an integral part of overall labor process organization and human resource management. It was noted that the executive branch, through its specialized bodies, implements state policies to ensure healthy and safe working conditions. A table detailing economic activities related to occupational accidents, work accidents involving women (including accidents causing disability or death) was presented.

Yordan Tashev from the Bulgarian Association “Labor Health and Safety” delivered a presentation on the topic “Monitoring of the Working Environment and Respiratory Protection Measures.” The speaker emphasized the importance of acquainting companies and individuals with the requirements and regulations for ensuring health and safety at work to prevent occupational accidents. The presentation highlighted that providing quality training on the subject requires not only knowledge and professional qualifications but also extensive experience conveyed effectively. A video clip titled “Why Safety at Work Is Important and What It Means” was shown. The presentation showcased instances where speed was prioritized over safety and security, leading to undesired consequences. The association’s motto is “Precaution Today – Security Tomorrow.” Various types of personal protective equipment tailored to specific industries were presented. The association also offers professional consultations for their development.

A presentation on the topic: “Impact of the regulatory framework in the field of PPE on the Investment Process and the investment and financial products provided by the members of the Investment Council at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry” was delivered by Vladimir Tomov, Chairman of the Investment Council at the Chamber. He presented through the participants the main activities of the Council, focused on: provision of financial and investment products; development and presentation of investment projects; examination of financing projects by the members of the Council; facilitating transactions between members; organizing and participating in seminars and forums.

The lecturer focused in detail on the types of investment and financial products provided by the members of the Council on Investments, including: structuring of specialized investment, guarantee and financial instruments with European and national donor funding; venture capital; share capital; accelerator programs with investments; guarantee instruments, including for start-ups; microfinance for start-ups and micro and small enterprises, agricultural producers, incl. producers of organic products and others.

A lively discussion took place on the topic “State of the real estate market after the Covid 19 pandemic” with the speaker: Alexander Bochev, vice-chairman of the National Real Estate Association and manager of RealNet. In his presentation, the lecturer gave an overview of the real estate market in Bulgaria before and after the Covid 19 pandemic. It was noted that during the pandemic, a serious drop in property prices was not noticed. A drop in rents has been felt as the shift to telecommuting has left many offices vacant and vacant with no takers. A search for houses was noticed around the big cities, at a distance of up to 40-50 km., and people became more cautious when buying green properties. Thus, in the conditions of the state of emergency and forced isolation, the real estate market has been put on “pause”. The lecturer emphasized that regardless of the epidemic, the purchase of real estate remains one of the safest long-term investments and one of the most preferred by Bulgarians.

Information was presented about a voluntary “Professional register of agencies, brokers and real estate agents” developed in NSNI, through which all real estate companies, not only members of NSNI, but all those who wish, will be able to present their activities and show their brokers and agents of service users. Different graphs were also demonstrated for property prices over the last 5 years in our country compared to those in the EU; average prices per sq.m. by cities in the EU and in Bulgaria; by neighborhoods in the city of Sofia, etc. The conclusion was that after the pandemic the real estate market is reviving.

At the end of the seminar, the participants expressed satisfaction and satisfaction with the topics presented and discussions held and rated them as very useful for their future work.