In brief
During a presentation of a World Bank assessment on poverty and equity, Bulgarian Energy Minister Iva Petrova revealed that more than 1.8 million citizens—about 28 % of the population—are in energy poverty. She highlighted the need for a sustained programme with interim targets in 2030 and a 2050 goal, stressing the balance between energy security, competitiveness, and affordable prices. The minister cited recent legislative steps, including a formal definition of energy poverty, and outlined an 11‑measure government plan to aid the most vulnerable consumers.
On 18 September 2026, Energy Minister Iva Petrova stood before attendees at the Grand Hotel Sofia and announced that over 1.8 million people—approximately 28 % of the country’s population—are suffering from energy poverty. The figure was released during a presentation of the World Bank Group’s assessment, titled “Green and Inclusive Futures: Creating Opportunities in the Green Transition," which was prepared in cooperation with the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy and the Ministry of Energy.
Petrova described the number as a stark reminder that Bulgaria still faces a significant housing‑energy gap. She stressed that the lack of access to affordable and reliable energy undermines both everyday quality of life and the nation’s broader economic activity. According to the minister, the three‑fold challenge hinges on maintaining energy security, ensuring the sector’s competitiveness, and keeping energy prices affordable for all households.
In an appeal to policymakers, Petrova said, “One of the important tasks ahead of us is to develop a long‑term programme to reduce energy poverty by 2050, with interim targets for 2030.”
The minister added that a robust policy response would have to coordinate efforts across multiple institutions. She described the programme as a “framework that guarantees consistency in planning measures,” noting that this coordination is essential for delivering tangible results. This calls for a harmonised approach between ministries and local authorities, many of whom are on the front lines of implementing subsidy and assistance schemes.
A key development highlighted by Petrova was that Bulgaria has recently established a legislative framework for tackling energy poverty. The government introduced the first official definition of the term, which now provides a common language for all stakeholders to discuss and measure progress. The ministry also reported that it has begun to institutionalise processes that allow vulnerability assessments to take place at the local level.
Long‑Term Program and Interim Targets
Petrova outlined a two‑stage roadmap: an interim target of reducing the proportion of households in energy poverty by 2030, followed by an ultimate goal of eradicating the issue by 2050. These targets align with the World Bank assessment’s proposals for a green transition that is inclusive and sustainable. The minister emphasized that the 2030 target would “create a reference point for evaluating future strategies and ensure that the government remains accountable to its residents.”
Government Commitment Through 2030
The ministry’s programme through 2030 includes “specific commitments under 11 measures aimed at supporting the most vulnerable consumers of energy services.” While the source does not list the measures in detail, Petrova noted that they cover financial assistance, information campaigns, and infrastructure improvements. The goal is to strengthen households’ financial resilience by easing the cost burden associated with heating and electricity.
In her remarks, Petrova also referred to the necessity of balancing economic competitiveness with affordability. She stated that “energy policy should consider households’ financial circumstances while progressing toward broader national goals such as reduced emissions and increased renewable capacity.” This dual focus is intended to avoid compromising one group of users for the benefit of another.
Context and Implications
Energy poverty remains a critical barrier to achieving Bulgaria’s climate‑action targets. The World Bank assessment used by Petrova underscores the intertwined nature of social equity and environmental stewardship. The minister’s data suggest that more than one in four people are unable to maintain basic heating during colder seasons, which has direct implications for public health and social stability.
At the event, the presentation of the World Bank assessment also served to benchmark Bulgaria’s progress against regional peers. Petrova acknowledged the assessment’s role in identifying gaps and priorities and urged continued international collaboration to secure technical and financial support.
Looking Forward
With the scheduled interim target in 2030 and a final goal set for 2050, Bulgaria is solidifying its commitment to a sustainable, resilient, and equitable energy future. Minister Petrova’s call for a coordinated, long‑term programme reflects a broader global effort to address energy affordability as part of climate solutions. As the country moves forward, the next steps will involve translating policy intent into concrete measures, monitoring progress against the targets, and ensuring that vulnerable households are not left behind during the transition to greener energy systems.
