The Greens are not only obstructing highways, tunnels, and roads, but also key energy facilities, tourist areas, ski lifts, and slopes. One of the most prominent examples of such actions is the case of the “Yadenitsa” dam in the Rila Mountains, which was planned to provide clean mountain water and environmentally friendly electricity production, reports Eco News.
Background of the Latest Obstruction
The “Chaira” Pumped Storage Hydro Power Plant (PSHPP) has a capacity of 824 megawatts—nearly equivalent to that of the sixth reactor at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant. In order to increase the capacity of this key facility within Bulgaria’s energy system and ensure 24-hour continuous operation, more water resources are needed.
In August 2012, the Council of Ministers decided to build the “Yadenitsa” dam as part of the Belmeken–Sestrimo–Chaira hydro energy complex. The project was declared one of national importance, and the European Commission classified it as a project of common interest.
In 2017, the Supreme Environmental Expert Council at the Ministry of Environment and Water (MOEW) approved the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) required for the project’s implementation.
Opposition from Environmentalists
The EIA was immediately challenged by the green non-governmental organization “Balkanka,” which is part of the “For the Nature in Bulgaria” coalition and the “Green Movement” political party. The complaint was signed by eco-activist Dimitar Kumanov, chair of the association.