Bulgaria’s coal regions are set to receive BGN 1.58 billion (€808 million) through the European Union’s Just Transition Fund (JTF) to support projects in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and the redevelopment of former mining areas. Combined with an existing €598 million program, total investment in Bulgaria’s post-coal transformation will reach €1.38 billion, according to the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works.
The funds will target the coal-producing regions of Stara Zagora, Kyustendil, and Pernik, along with municipalities such as Nova Zagora, Yambol, Simeonovgrad, Harmanli, Topolovgrad, Dimitrovgrad, Haskovo, Elhovo, Sliven, and Tundzha. The JTF grants aim to help communities close coal mines and coal-fired power plants, rehabilitate degraded land, promote energy efficiency, and support a shift toward a climate-neutral economy while reducing energy poverty.
Deputy Minister Yura Vitanova announced that three new grant procedures will be launched by the end of the year:
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€153.4 million for energy efficiency and energy communities in public buildings,
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€72.6 million to help small and medium-sized enterprises install solar panels and energy storage systems, and
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€242.9 million for socio-economic transformation projects, including converting former mining areas into business and industrial zones.
In addition, €134.5 million will support the development of green hydrogen infrastructure in Stara Zagora. The initiative includes a hydrogen production complex, charging stations, hydrogen vehicles and trailers, and supporting photovoltaic and energy storage systems.
The current JTF program is already funding the renovation of residential buildings, industrial and logistics park development, and training and retraining programs for workers affected by the energy transition. It also supports production investments in large enterprises to diversify regional economies.
“Bulgaria’s coal regions are poised to become hubs for clean energy and sustainable industry,” said Deputy Minister Vitanova. “These investments will not only reduce emissions but also create new opportunities for local businesses and communities.”
