Cooperation in the field of nuclear technologies for civil purposes, the construction of new AP-1000 reactors at the Kozloduy nuclear power plant (NPP), cooperation and training of personnel in the energy sphere, diversification, energy security and connectivity were the main topics discussed during the meeting of Bulgaria’s Ministers of Energy and Finance, Rumen Radev and Assen Vasilev, with US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm in Washington.
Minister Radev shared his satisfaction with the deepening of bilateral cooperation on the construction of new nuclear facilities and emphasised that it is important to focus efforts on the exchange of knowledge and practice for the long-term storage of spent nuclear fuel.
Also, he welcomed the US for the speed and incentives they are applying to realise the development, deployment and distribution of hydrogen technologies in the heavy industry and transport sectors.
“The European Union and the United States remain world leaders in the development of new technologies related to the production and use of green hydrogen,” Minister Radev said. “This is the future energy resource that will not only allow us to achieve climate neutrality but will also boost industry and support the creation of new jobs.”
In this regard, US Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm informed about the creation of 7 hydrogen hubs in the United States and partnership opportunities.
“Cooperation in the field of energy between the two countries contributes to increasing the energy security and diversification not only of our country but also of the entire Balkan region,” underlined Minister Vassilev, placing special emphasis on the North-South project, which aims to create optimal connectivity of the energy, digital and transport systems of Romania, Bulgaria and Greece.