OMV Petrom and Enery Join Forces for Bulgaria’s 400 MW Solar Project

OMV Petrom, an integrated energy producer in South-Eastern Europe, has partnered with renewable energy firm Enery to co-develop the 400 MW Gabare solar photovoltaic project in Byala Slatina, near Sofia, Bulgaria.

OMV Petrom will acquire 50 percent of the shares in Dunav Solar Plant EOOD, the company developing the project, along with a power purchase agreement (PPA) for half of the energy output.

Once operational, the Gabare PV park will generate enough electricity to power around 150,000 Bulgarian households annually. The project will use solar tracking systems to maximise efficiency and is expected to include a battery energy storage system (BESS) of up to 600 MWh to enhance grid reliability.

Construction permits and grid connection are already secured. The final investment decision is anticipated by the end of 2025, with commercial operations expected in 2027.

Investment Commitment and Regional Impact

OMV Petrom and Enery plan to invest approximately EUR 200 million in the Gabare solar project by 2027, including external financing. The partnership reflects OMV Petrom’s broader regional strategy, strengthening its footprint in Bulgaria, where it operates 93 fuel stations and markets natural gas through a local subsidiary.

Franck Neel, Executive Board Member at OMV Petrom, noted, “By investing in one of the largest photovoltaic projects in Bulgaria, we are supporting the region’s energy transition and securing reliable low-carbon energy.”

Enery’s Expanding Green Portfolio

Enery, which currently operates 490 MW of installed renewable capacity generating nearly 700 GWh annually, sees this joint venture as a model for long-term sustainability.

CEO Richard König stated, “This partnership ensures revenue stability and shows how industrial players can lead the energy transition.”

Enery has over 8 GW of renewable energy projects under development in 11 countries and integrates ESG principles into all aspects of its business operations.

As Bulgaria accelerates its clean energy targets, the Gabare solar project stands out as a milestone in its journey.

OMV Petrom is among the largest integrated energy producers in Southeastern Europe, with an annual Group hydrocarbon production of approximately 40 million barrels of oil equivalent (BOE) in 2024.