The Interim Minister of Economy and Energy: We will work for financial stabilizing the energy sector
"All decisions in economy and energy sectors will be taken in complete transparency. Many components of these structural defining branches for the country will be optimized in order to operate more efficiently". That stated the Interim Minister of Economy and Energy Vassil Shtonov in the "12 +3“on Bulgarian National Radio.
"We are mainly aimed at financial stabilizing the energy sector, where debts due to inefficiency have been accumulated. During the last year the duties of Bulgarian Energy Holding have increased. A coherent energy policy to ensure its long-term sustainability, is required", said Shtonov. In his words, the country needs the structure as the BEH, which will provide a greater financial stability for the energy companies on the market. The Energy Minister stressed that power cuts will hardly triggered, as currently there is a surplus of electricity produced in Bulgaria.
Minister Shtonov announced that the work of the Energy Board will commence during the government of the interim cabinet. "All participants on the energy market should reach an agreement in order to complete the steps needed for recovery of the Bulgarian energy sector". All interested parties, as well as representatives of the European Commission, the World Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development will take part in the Energy Board.
Regarding "South Stream", Minister Shtonov was quite insistent that the project will remain grounded as long as the European Commission approves its implementation: "The construction of the pipeline is important not only for Bulgaria but also for Europe, but it should be executed in compliance with the EC rules". In his words, the European Commission will be fully supported with regards to the documents required. "The legal analysis of project documentation related to the construction of the seventh unit of the NPP "Kozloduy " is still ongoing. We want to make sure that no obligations and penalties have been imposed on the state under the project", emphasized Shtonov.
"I believe that the economy is where we are able to create the most value added. We will focus on measures to improve the business environment for SMEs ", added Minister Vassil Shtonov. He clearly stated the Partnership Agreement, which was signed with the EU last week, will open the door to signing the Operational Program "Competitiveness and Innovation" 2014 - 2020, as to provide resources for development of the Bulgarian business. According to Minister Shtonov, the potential to create the employment rate will be within the SMEs, and it is important the resources provided by the European Commission to be put to use as appropriate.