A new opportunity for financing energy-efficient solutions and building photovoltaic systems for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bulgaria is about to be launched. This is procedure BG16RFPR001-2.004 "Energy efficiency and use of energy from renewable sources in enterprises," part of the "Competitiveness and Innovation in Enterprises 2021-2027" (CIE) program.
When does it start?
The procedure was published for public consultation on April 17, 2025, and its official announcement is scheduled for May 28, 2025. Taking advantage of the public consultation phase allows businesses to prepare in time and provide feedback on the conditions.
Purpose of the funding
The program aims to help businesses:
- reduce their energy costs;
- improve their energy efficiency;
- switch to renewable energy sources;
- accelerate the transition to climate neutrality.
What is the amount of the aid?
The total budget for the procedure is BGN 126 million, with over 1,200 projects expected to be funded.
| Enterprise category | Grant aid | Funding intensity |
|---|---|---|
| Micro-enterprise | BGN 30,000–100,000 | up to 65% |
| Small enterprise | BGN 30,000–100,000 | up to 65% |
| Medium-sized enterprise | BGN 30,000–100,000 | up to 65% |
Important: The remaining 35% of the investment must be provided by the applicant. The aid is granted under the de minimis regime, i.e. the maximum aid allowed for a period of 3 years must not exceed EUR 300,000.
Who can apply?
Eligible enterprises are those that:
- were registered before 31 December 2021;
- have achieved minimum net sales revenue for 2023, as follows:
- BGN 100,000 for micro-enterprises;
- BGN 300,000 for small enterprises;
- BGN 1,000,000 for medium-sized enterprises;
- apply independently;
- whose main economic activity is among those eligible under the procedure.
What activities are funded?
- The focus is on investments that lead to real energy efficiency and sustainable use of RES. Eligible activities include:
- Investments in energy-efficient equipment and machinery;
- Energy-efficient lighting – replacement of existing lighting with LED and intelligent control systems;
- Construction of photovoltaic systems (solar panels) for own consumption;
- Installation of energy storage systems (batteries);
- Costs for installation, commissioning, and related infrastructure.
Who is not eligible to apply?
Enterprises from the following sectors are not eligible:
- Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries (Sector A);
- Energy production and distribution (Sector D);
- Financial and insurance activities (Sector K);
- Gambling, public administration, and other specific codes under NACE-2008.
How to check your eligibility?
Before submitting a project, check:
- Your main economic activity for 2023 – through reporting to the NSI, your accountant, or the Commercial Register;
- The total amount of de minimis aid received in the last 3 years.
How can we help you?
Inter Power is a reliable partner with extensive experience in the construction of photovoltaic systems and the implementation of energy-efficient solutions. We will:
- advise you on eligibility under the procedure;
- prepare an individual proposal;
- prepare your application documents for the program;
- build the system with professionalism and precision;
- assist you with the technical documentation for the project.
📞 Contact us today so we can prepare your project together!
