„Toplofikatsiya Sofia" has been on the verge of bankruptcy for nearly ten years. This was stated by energy expert Prof. Yanko Yanev on the air of „Denyat na Live“ on NOVA NEWS.. According to him, although new solutions for energy independence are being discussed, including the construction of small modular nuclear reactors, their efficiency and applicability will depend on a number of factors.
„Most likely, these reactors can help, but this depends on their type and power. It must be clearly shown where exactly such an installation will be built, because it is a nuclear facility and the requirements are almost the same as for large reactors“, pointed out Prof. Yanev.
He emphasized that the question remains open whether such a facility can be combined with a large city like Sofia without endangering the safety of the population.
Regarding the project for the construction of the 7th and 8th units at the “Kozloduy“ NPP, the energy expert defined the undertaking as a “very complex project“.
“This requires preparation of the site, which is extremely labor-intensive, and the implementation of new technology, which further complicates the process“, he stated.
Prof. Yanev warned that the main risk is political, because it is possible that the project will be stopped if there is a change of government.
„The 7th and 8th units must be politically protected so that no change of government can block their construction. If this happens, it will mean a huge loss of funds," the expert is categorical.
He added that during the construction of the new units, there may be temporary interruptions in the plant's operation, especially when repairs are required or when a replacement of the 6th unit is planned.
At the end of the conversation, Prof. Yanev also commented on the situation with Iran's nuclear program, pointing out that the two uranium enrichment sites in the country were destroyed with a powerful weapon.
"Iran may have exported some of its uranium, but the country is categorical that it will continue its nuclear program, mainly in a peaceful direction," he noted.