The year 2010 is expected to be decisive for the future development of nuclear power in Europe.  The latest Eurobarometer public poll results show that two thirds of the Europeans recognize the importance of nuclear power for reducing the dependence on liquid fuel import, for securing stable and cost-effective prices of generated energy and mitigating climate change. Many governments on the Old Continent are considering extension of the operating nuclear power plants lifetime or construction of new ones.

With over 30 years of experience in the operation of nuclear facilities, well developed human resources and available infrastructure, Bulgaria will continue to rely on nuclear power as a major source of secure, safe, clean and cost-effective energy.  Based on these consideration in 2005 the Council of Ministers took a decision for construction of two 1000 MW units with pressurized water reactors located near the town of Belene.  

The major factors in support of the nuclear option for Bulgaria are:

·         Possibility to satisfy the national and regional energy demand considering the expected consumption growth on the Balkans after stabilization of the financial economic situation 

·         Reliability and security of fuel supplies

·         Predictability of nuclear fuel prices on a long-term

·         Limitation of greenhouse  gas emissions and environment pollution caused by the use of conventional fuels

·         High level of safety of latest nuclear technologies

·         Social and economic benefits for the country through creation of employment, positive impact on the economy and living standard of the population