Georgi Dobrev, CEO of National Electricity Company, and Atsushi Mikuni, representing Toshiba Corporation, signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at the long-term restoration and sustainable operation of Chaira PSHPP. The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Chikahisa Sumi, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Japan to Bulgaria, and Mr. Valentin Nikolov, CEO of the Bulgarian Energy Holding.

By means of this Memorandum, the parties express their desire to explore and develop their mutual vision for future joint projects related to a long-term solution for all hydropower units of Chaira PSHPP and a comprehensive approach for sustainable operation of the whole power plant.

„This is a significant step forward in building our partnership with Toshiba—the original equipment manufacturer for the largest pumped-storage hydropower plant in the Balkans. Although the document is not legally binding, it lays an important foundation for the implementation of future joint activities with high added value,” emphasized Georgi Dobrev, CEO of NEK.

The Memorandum of Understanding will serve as a structured, transparent and non-binding framework for cooperation. The cooperation may include technical assistance for turbine maintenance and support, ongoing operational support, maintenance and optimization, preventive and corrective maintenance services, support for improving the reliability and efficiency of key equipment, as well as supply of spare parts.