Enery has successfully commissioned the Nova Zagora BESS, the largest battery energy storage system in Central and Eastern Europe: With a total capacity of 601.8 MWh and an output of 150 MW, this facility marks a milestone for Bulgaria’s energy transition, providing critical grid stability and enabling the integration of renewable energy sources.
Strategic Impact: Empowering Bulgaria’s Grid Stability
With the commissioning of the Nova Zagora battery energy storage system (BESS), Enery is taking a vital step towards a more flexible and stable energy system in Bulgaria. The facility strengthens grid stability and creates new opportunities for integrating renewable energy across the country.
Over the past few months, this project has taken shape in southeastern Bulgaria, adding a new dimension to the country’s energy infrastructure. As a key player in Bulgaria’s energy transition, Enery’s project is essential for achieving reliable and affordable electricity supplies in today’s volatile markets. With operations starting in March 2026, the system supports the large-scale expansion of renewables across the region.
With the commissioning of the Nova Zagora battery energy storage system (BESS), Enery is taking a vital step towards a more flexible and stable energy system in Bulgaria. The facility strengthens grid stability and creates new opportunities for integrating renewable energy across the country.
Technical Specifications of the Nova Zagora Storage Facility
The Nova Zagora facility is designed as a standalone battery storage system, setting a record as the largest BESS project in Central and Eastern Europe.
Key Technical Data:
- Total Capacity: 601.8 MWh
- Power Output: 150 MW
- Infrastructure: 120 containers (5.015 MWh each)
- Grid Connection: On-site 33/110 kV substation
- Transformer Capacity: 150 MVA with 30 individual transformer stations (5.140 MVA each)
“Delivering the Nova Zagora BESS requires precise coordination of multiple construction and electrical work streams,” explains Dimcho Dimov, Site Manager and Head of Monitoring Control Room. “Seeing these components come together into a fully functioning facility that supports grid stability is extremely rewarding.”
Innovative Green Financing and Strategic Partnerships
The project rests on a solid economic foundation through a green financing package from DSK Bank AD, specifically aimed at sustainable energy infrastructure.
To ensure long-term stability, Enery secured a Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (VPPA) with the international energy company Vitol. This commercial structure provides planning certainty and underlines the project’s strategic importance for the European energy market. Beyond technical innovation, the project utilized local expertise, involving numerous regional companies and skilled workers during construction.
Driving the Energy Transition in Central and Eastern Europe
Beyond its importance for the energy system, the Nova Zagora project has a strong regional impact. For Enery, this facility is part of a broader vision: to drive the expansion of renewable energy across Central and Eastern Europe while offering innovative solutions for integration and optimization.
Stoyan Petrov, Head of O&M at Enery Bulgaria, sees projects like Nova Zagora BESS as a key step: “From an operations and maintenance perspective, large-scale battery storage adds a new dimension to how we manage energy assets. Integrating advanced technologies such as BESS will play a key role in ensuring reliable, efficient and future-ready energy infrastructure.”
Valentin Valkov, Project Manager, concludes: “Nova Zagora BESS is an exciting project because it represents the future of energy systems. Being part of a project that combines technical complexity, innovation and real impact on the energy sector makes the work highly motivating.”
FAQ
What is the largest battery storage in CEE?
The Nova Zagora BESS in Bulgaria, developed by Enery, is currently the largest battery energy storage system in the CEE region with 601.8 MWh capacity.
How does BESS support the energy transition?
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) stabilize the power grid by storing excess renewable energy and releasing it when demand is high, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
When did the Nova Zagora BESS become operational?
The facility was fully commissioned and entered operation in March 2026.