In the era of new technologies and digital solutions, it is people who continue to be the most valuable capital of the mining industry.“ With this message, the Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov opened his greetings to the participants in the national celebration of the Miner’s Day, organized by the Bulgarian Mining and Geological Chamber at “Sofia Hotel Balkan“.
In his speech, Minister Stankov recalled that back in 2015 he participated in the creation of a mining strategy with a horizon until 2050, which today serves as the basis for the sustainable development of the sector. He noted the achievements of the industry – increasing productivity, implementing new technologies, reducing work accidents by 20% and increasing revenues in the state budget, which are returned to the people in the form of public investments. The Energy Minister also stated that actions have been taken to open up new investment opportunities in the search and exploitation of rare metals and raw materials.
„More than 120 thousand people employed in the industry guarantee the stability and future development of the energy sector. Their work is a mission, not just a profession“, the Minister emphasized.
Stankov emphasized the state’s commitment to continue supporting the industry, recalling that nearly half a billion leva in aid has already been allocated to compensate for high electricity prices. He announced that Bulgaria has the ambition to be the first country to implement the new European directive, which also includes the mining industry. It allows financing of up to 50% of the electricity costs of businesses, „We are working, together with employer organizations, on the mechanism that we will notify to the EC. “We are considering introducing a three-year predictable horizon for electricity subsidies, so as to ensure competitiveness, investment and job preservation,” the minister emphasized.
During the event, the minister presented awards to leading companies and prominent leaders in the industry for their contribution to the development of the mineral and raw materials industry.
