China's JA Solar to supply modules for 240MW plant in Bulgaria

Chinese manufacturer JA Solar has signed an agreement with European EPC Solarpro to supply modules for a 240MW solar power plant in Tenevo village, Yambol district, Bulgaria.

The project, financed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), will be one of the largest solar power plants in the region and is set to significantly enhance Bulgaria's renewable energy capacity.

Aiqing Yang, executive president of JA Solar, commented: "We're excited to work with Solarpro on this significant project to bring our most advanced products to the country. This cooperation represents a major step forward in our mission to promote renewable energy development in Bulgaria. Building on this partnership, we look forward to further promoting sustainable energy development in Europe with our partners through our dedicated services and advanced products."

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JA Solar will use its DeepBlue 4.0 series modules for the project in Bulgaria, which according to the company, will provide greater efficiency and good low light performance.

The installation of the solar modules is scheduled to begin in Q3 2024, with grid connection expected by the end of Q2 2025.

Solar boom in Bulgaria

Bulgaria has practically tripled its installed solar capacity in about three years, going from just more than 1GW at the end of 2020 to close to 3GW at the end of 2023, according to estimates by the Association for production, storage and trading of electricity (APSTE).

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Many regions across Bulgaria enjoy an annual average of sunshine ranging between 2,000 and 2,600 hours, according to SolarPower Europe. This allowed photovoltaic energy to contribute 41% to the energy supply mix during sunlit days in 2023.

Ongoing technological advancements, coupled with decreasing prices of PV modules, are putting the country in a good position. Furthermore, achieving the 1GW target for new solar capacity on the grid in 2023 and bringing the total PV fleet close to 3GW puts Bulgaria on track to fulfill its 3.2GW NECP targets for 2030 seven years ahead of schedule.