In Bulgaria NVE is donor program partner for a program covering renewable energy, energy efficiency and energy security. Being a donor program partner means to provide advisory services in all phases of project developments and implementation. In addition, NVE is also the project partner in a related, so-called pre-defined project under the program, for carrying out a study for the potential for hydropower in water supply systems.
The EEA and Norway Grants 2014-2021 represent funding from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway to reduce economic and social disparities and strengthen cooperation with 15 EU countries in Central and Southern Europe and the Baltics. For the period 2014- 2021, a total contribution of €2.8 billion has been agreed. In the Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with the individual countries, the actual allocation is determined. In the MoU it is also determined which Norwegian authorities will be the donor program partner (adviser) for the countries’ respective programs
Strengthening relations between Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway and the beneficiary countries is the other of the two main objectives of the EEA and Norway Grants.
On program level:
public institutions and government agencies from the beneficiary states and Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway cooperate in the design of the program (concept note) and share knowledge and experience during the implementation stage.
On project level under the program:
private businesses, research groups, municipalities, and NGOs from the donor and the beneficiary countries are encouraged to enter into cooperation to implement joint projects. NVE as a donor program partner will assist in facilitating such project cooperation.
Activities
The work in the first part was mostly related to preparatory activities in connection with developing a concept note for the program. The program agreement was signed in June 2018. A kick- off and matchmaking event was held in Sofia in May 2019. The open calls for project applications will be gradually launched in 2020 and 2021.
The program is divided into 4 areas:
a) Developing small hydro power plants in water supply systems.
b) New geothermal energy installations.
c) Improved energy efficiency in buildings,industryand municipalities.
d) Competence building in the program relevant areas.