The visit was part of a program to share best practices and experience in the field of hydropower
On May 22, NEK hosted representatives from Axpo's Hydropower Division as part of a knowledge-sharing programme. Axpo, Switzerland's leading renewable energy producer, operates 4,330 MW of hydropower and pump storage plants and is an international leader in energy trading and marketing of solar and wind energy.
The Axpo delegation comprised Jörg Huwyler, Head of Division Hydro & Biomass; Daniel Loosli, Leading Engineer Hydro & Biomass; Emil Bieri, Head of Digital Transformation from Axpo Hydropower Division; and Milena Videnova, Executive Director of Axpo Bulgaria. The Bulgarian delegation was headed by NEK’s CEO Martin Georgiev.
The experts toured the fully refurbished Belmeken Pumped Storage Hydropower Plant (PSHPP) and Momina Klisura Hydropower Plant (HPP), Belmeken Dam, and received an update on the Chaira PSHPP restoration project.
This visit builds upon a previous collaboration that began with an official NEK delegation visiting Axpo's headquarters in Switzerland in September 2023. There, Bulgarian specialists familiarised themselves with the construction and operation of the Limmern PSHPP, which shares similar characteristics to the Chaira PSHPP. Sharing expertise and best practices in hydropower technology and management can contribute to more efficient and sustainable energy production, as well as support the modernisation and efficient operation of both companies' hydropower facilities.
„Cooperation with Axpo plays an important role, as both companies are committed to promoting renewable energy sources and contributing to the transition towards a greener energy future. Knowledge exchange provides a strong foundation for implementing cutting-edge technology and effective operational strategies, ensuring continuous improvement and innovation in the hydropower sector.”, Martin Georgiev commented
About Axpo
Axpo is driven by a single purpose – to enable a sustainable future through innovative energy solutions. Axpo is Switzerland's largest producer of renewable energy and an international leader in energy trading and the marketing of solar and wind power. Axpo combines the experience and expertise of more than 6,700 employees who are driven by a passion for innovation, collaboration and impactful change. Using cutting-edge technologies, Axpo innovates to meet the evolving needs of its customers in over 30 countries across Europe, North America and Asia.
About NEK
NEK EAD is the biggest producer of electricity from renewable sources in Bulgaria
The Company lies at the heart of the electric power system of Bulgaria, producing electricity at 31 hydro-power and pumped storage hydro-power plants, with a total installed generating capacity of 2739 MW and pumping capacity of 932 MW. The flexible generation facilities of the company have a key role in ensuring security of supply and reliability and security of the grid system of Bulgaria. With its hydroelectric power the company contributes to the country’s renewable targets in the total energy balance.
NEK operates some of the largest dams and hydropower schemes in the country, applying stringent requirements on their O&M safety and efficiency. The total capacity of the dam reservoirs operated by NEK EAD represents 55% of the total controlled water resources in the Republic of Bulgaria.
