On April 28, 2026, the event “The Energy Sector in Digital Transition,” organized by UDIH (Utilities Digital Innovation Hub) in partnership with Elnova AD, was held at the Bulgarian Chamber of Construction. It brought together representatives from the energy industry, technology companies, and the financial sector to discuss key trends in the development of the energy sector and the role of digitalization in these trends.
The main outcome of the discussions was clear: after a decade of intense developments, the energy sector is entering a new phase in which traditional infrastructure models are being enhanced with smart, software-driven systems. Data quality is becoming a strategic resource, and the ability to respond quickly—a critical competitive advantage. With the growing share of renewable sources and more dynamic markets, digitalization is becoming a key factor for the system’s sustainability.
At the forum’s opening, UDIH Chairman Dimitar Ivanov highlighted the hub’s role as a driving force behind digital transformation in the utility sector. He emphasized the similarities between the energy and water sectors—areas that face shared challenges related to infrastructure, resource management, and efficiency.
Angelin Tsachev from Bulgarian Energy Holding answered the question, “Why now?”
He described the transition from traditional, static models to a dynamic digital ecosystem as a process that has been unfolding for years but is now reaching a critical stage. Among the reasons for its slower development to date were pointed out limited access to financing, the lack of a long-term strategy, and institutional barriers. Today, however, technological advancement and increased market pressure are accelerating the transformation.
Angelin Tzachev, Director of the Investment Department at Bulgarian Energy Holding EAD
Tachev also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning, which already form the backbone of modern energy system management. These technologies enable more accurate forecasting of renewable energy production and more effective energy trading strategies.
Access to high-quality data remains a key factor in this transformation. The concept of a centralized platform for collecting data from electricity meters—one that would ensure transparency and equal access for all market participants—continues to face challenges.
UDIH as a driver of digital transformation in the utilities sector
As part of the European network of digital innovation hubs (EDIH), UDIH acts as an independent intermediary between the business community, the academic community, and the public sector. In the next panel, Yana Mihaylova and Maria Stefanova from UDIH presented the specific tools the hub uses to support digital transformation. These include training to develop the digital skills of employees in the utilities sector, consulting services for applying to European and national funding programs, and access to a test environment for testing and validating digitalization solutions before their integration. This approach aims to reduce investment risk and accelerate the implementation of innovations.
The practical aspect of these services was presented by Dobromir Moldovanov of Qubiqo, who introduced the project for a Digital Technology Center in Plovdiv. Built within the Plovdiv wastewater treatment plant, it will provide an environment for testing, demonstrations, and training using IoT, digital twins, and analytical tools.
Dobromir Moldovanov, QUBIQO
Accelerated deployment of renewable energy and energy storage solutions
Petko Marinikov of Elnova AD presented the latest data on the evolution of Bulgaria’s energy mix. Key trends include significant growth in solar capacity—with an additional 1.4 GW added by 2025—as well as the fact that renewable sources have already surpassed coal-fired power plants as the second-largest source of electricity after the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant. At the same time, there is also rapid development in energy storage systems.
Petko Marinikov, Елнова АД
These processes are part of a broader trend toward decarbonization, which, however, goes along with increased market volatility. Electricity prices are becoming more and more dependent on weather conditions and short-term market factors. In this environment, intraday markets are becoming increasingly important, and new players such as prosumers, aggregators, and virtual power plants are reshaping the sector. Energy portfolio management is becoming a factor with direct financial implications.
The market rewards not only the energy produced, but above all the ability to respond quickly and effectively to dynamic demand
During the discussion panel featuring representatives from Bulgarian Energy Holding, Synergon Energy, Electrohold Trade, and Energo-Pro Energy Services, the role of quality data for accurate forecasts was emphasized. The participants noted that improvements could be achieved even with relatively small investments, for example by installing a network of weather stations.
Angelin Tsachev, Director of the Investment Department at Bulgarian Energy Holding EAD,
Dimitar Bartov, CEO, Synergon Energy,
Krasimir Kolev, founder and managing partner at TokWise,
Martin Georgiev, Chief Operating Officer, Electrohold Trade,
Konstantin Konstantinov, CEO, Energo-pro Energy Services,
Moderated by: Ilyan Skarlatov
The role of the human factor in the new energy landscape was also discussed: despite automation and the development of artificial intelligence, human expertise remains crucial, especially in strategic planning. Technology accelerates processes, but it does not replace expert judgment.
Another key focus was the growing integration of energy markets at the European level. Although the process is not yet fully complete, the direction is toward greater interconnectivity, competition, and new opportunities for market participants.
What are the participants’ forecasts for the sector’s development over the next two years?
In the short term, continued investment in renewable energy and storage systems, wider adoption of management software solutions, and better synchronization between generation and consumption are expected. There are also additional opportunities to expand capacity by utilizing urban spaces such as rooftops and parking lots.
The long-term strategic development, however, lies on data—its sharing, management, and effective use. The technology solutions are already available, but the challenges are primarily organizational and administrative.
The general conclusion of the forum is that success in the energy sector will increasingly depend on the ability to combine data, forecasts, flexibility, and market mechanisms into integrated and smart systems that ensure a reliable and sustainable energy supply.