Bulgaria and Turkey Discuss Optimizing Gas Deal, Explore Renewable Energy Cooperation
Bulgaria is seeking to renegotiate its gas agreement with Turkey’s BOTAS, aiming to optimize capacity reservation terms that currently cost the country over $500,000 per day, regardless of usage. The discussions took place during a meeting between Bulgarian caretaker Energy Minister Traicho Traikov and his Turkish counterpart Alparslan Bayraktar in Paris on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the Second Nuclear Energy Summit.
Seeking Contract Adjustments
Bulgaria currently reserves a capacity of 1.8 billion cubic meters per year to unload liquefied natural gas at Turkish terminals and transport it to Bulgaria under an agreement that extends until 2036. Yet, actual imports under the contract have been significantly lower, with only 2.5 million cubic meters imported since the beginning of 2023, some of which remains stored in Turkish facilities. Bulgargaz previously requested changes to the contract in the summer of 2024, proposing reduced quantities, a shorter term, and revised tariffs, which were then priced at 120 euros per MWh – double current market values.
Turkish Willingness to Renegotiate
According to Minister Traikov, the Turkish side has demonstrated understanding and a willingness to adjust the contract terms. “Specific negotiations are ahead, as it is about very specific parameters, at the same time, Turkey has its own interests,” Traikov stated. He also noted that both countries are exploring joint projects, including the development of “green corridors” for renewable energy transmission through Turkey and Bulgaria.
Leveraging Turkish LNG Capacity
Bulgaria intends to utilize Turkey’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) import capacity while maintaining a rational framework for the existing agreement. Traikov believes it is beneficial for Bulgaria to seize advantage of Turkey’s LNG import capabilities and aims to optimize the current contract parameters.
Joint Projects and Regional Energy Security
Beyond the gas contract, the two ministers discussed potential collaboration on renewable energy projects. Traikov also met with his Romanian counterpart, Bogdan-Gruia Ivan, to explore a joint application for European Commission grant funding for a feasibility study for the Nikopol-Turnu Magurele hydropower plant, a project previously identified as a priority by Brussels.
Middle East Crisis and Energy Markets
The Nuclear Energy Summit also addressed the impact of the Middle East crisis on global energy markets. Traikov emphasized the importance of strategic autonomy in energy at the European level and reducing dependence on external suppliers. He highlighted the role of nuclear energy as a stable, low-carbon energy source and the need for investments in clean energy technologies, including little modular reactors.
Nuclear Energy and European Taxonomy
Traikov also raised the issue of revising the technical criteria within the European taxonomy related to nuclear energy, advocating for equal and technologically neutral treatment of low-carbon technologies to ensure access to financing.