LEGAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE BULGARIAN ENERGY SECTOR: FROM A CENTRALIZED MODEL TO A DECENTRALIZED REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES AND RENEWABLE ENERGY COMMUNITIES

Abstract

This report analyzes the fundamental regulatory transformation of the Bulgarian energy sector, stemming from the transition from the traditional centralized model to a decentralized legal framework for renewable energy sources. The primary research focus is directed toward the conceptual alignment and existing contradictions between the Energy Act and the Energy from Renewable Sources Act. Despite the introduction of progressive European definitions such as "active consumer" and "renewable energy community," the analysis identifies a significant regulatory dualism that hinders the actual functionality of these new market entities. The study identifies key barriers to energy decentralization arising from the conservative architecture of the Energy Act and the lack of applied methodology in secondary legislation. Special attention is paid to the need for reform in the licensing regimes of the Energy and Water Regulatory Commission and the introduction of differentiated "local grid fees" to reflect the actual load on the grid during production and consumption within a single community. The scientific contribution of the report is expressed in the formulation of specific proposals for legislative amendments, including the creation of a "one-stop-shop" digital register at the Sustainable Energy Development Agency to eliminate administrative duplication. The author substantiates the conclusion that without urgent regulatory corrections, energy decentralization in the Republic of Bulgaria will remain in a state of functional inefficiency, blocking strategic goals for a sustainable energy transition and decarbonization.