Bulgaria delays power market liberalization for households
The Bulgarian parliament has passed final amendments to the Energy Act, postponing the transition of household consumers to the free electricity market. Backed by GERB, BSP, TISP, and MRF - Peevski, the new model was coordinated with the European Commission and aims to protect consumers while supporting state-owned power plants like Maritza East 2.
Although household electricity prices will remain regulated, all transactions will go through the energy exchange, with suppliers compensated for the price difference. Consumers will see both the market price and the subsidized price on their bills, but will continue paying only the latter. The opposition criticized the reform as unsustainable and said it could not guarantee it would remain if GERB were to lose power. The government, on the other hand, argues it's necessary to avoid price hikes from July.
Seizure order hits MRF-Dogan's headquarters
Sofia's regional governor Stefan Arsov has ordered the seizure of the MRF - Dogan party headquarters on Alexander Stamboliyski Blvd, forcing the faction loyal to Ahmed Dogan to leave the premises by the end of the day. If they fail to do so, the offices will be sealed on Monday, May 19.
This is the latest blow in the 10-month-long internal battle for control of the MRF party between Dogan and Delyan Peevski. Dogan made a rare public appearance at the headquarters yesterday, assuming operational leadership in what insiders call a "transitional period" ahead of party reform. Meanwhile, Peevski continues consolidating influence through local structures, while the legal resolution of the party dispute remains pending.
Museum staff nationwide stage protest over low pay
On Saturday, museum employees across Bulgaria will hold a symbolic protest over low wages, Dnevnik informs. The demonstration, organized by the trade union Podkrepa, could escalate into more serious actions if their demands are not addressed. The workers are calling for annual salary increases to gradually reach 125% of the national average wage. They are also demanding additional funding for museum maintenance and development, legislative changes, and a national strategy for cultural heritage.
The protest comes amid a broader wave of discontent, with other sectors across the country also voicing demands for better pay and working conditions.
Bulgaria delays power market liberalization for households
The Bulgarian parliament has passed final amendments to the Energy Act, postponing the transition of household consumers to the free electricity market. Backed by GERB, BSP, TISP, and MRF - Peevski, the new model was coordinated with the European Commission and aims to protect consumers while supporting state-owned power plants like Maritza East 2.
