Two of the four hydropower units of the pumped-storage hydroelectric power plant (PHP) "Chaira" are operating and this is important for our electricity system. The benefits are not only the production of electricity, but also the fact that it serves as a balancing power. This was said by the acting Minister of Energy Traycho Traykov during an inspection of the functionality of hydropower unit 3 of the PHP "Chaira" after the completion of the repair of the facility and the conduct of the final pre-commissioning and commissioning tests.
The unit will operate in test mode until receiving act 16 for official commissioning.
Since February 17, the so-called “dry“ commissioning tests of the unit have been underway - the first stage of the tests, including a comprehensive check of the communication and interaction between the systems.
Hydro unit 3 is in 72-hour tests. This task has been completed. Hydro unit 2 is also operating, which will be launched today in pumping mode, when prices are low, explained Traykov.
According to him, the “Chaira“ NPP guarantees that it can power the own production of the “Kozloduy“ NPP in the event of a breakdown. This is an invaluable asset to our energy system, the acting minister emphasized.
He added that the final documentation for the public procurement for hydro unit 1 is currently being prepared, with the delivery of the equipment separated from the construction and installation works, and he expects there to be significant interest and the repair to begin. It is expected that it will start operating in 2028.
According to him, the “Chaira” HPP is important, including as a stabilizing power.
Traykov noted that analyses have been requested and 10 suitable locations for new HPP locations have been identified.
The Executive Technical Director of the National Electricity Company Krasimir Dimitrov explained that all control and management systems have been updated on HPP 3. It is expected that there will be an act 16 in May.