ContourGlobal has topped Up for Officially launching One of original high gigawatt class battery energy storage systems (BESS) in Bulgaria. This remarkable facility has a total capacity of 500 megawatt-hours (MWh). This development represents an enormous breakthrough for the country’s energy infrastructure. It deters dangerous climate change by a) aggressively promoting renewable energy sources beyond mere tokenism and b) increasing energy security.
The new BESS facility is situated in the Stara Zagora region. This region is an economic engine and heart of our energy economy. The new area includes their impressive koleksia of 25,000 square meters. It resides within the geographic footprint of the ME3 TPP’s coal-fired power plant. The facility will serve as a demonstration of new battery technology, using 110 BYD battery skids. In addition, it counts 28 integrated direct current (IDC) power conversion systems and transformer units.
As ContourGlobal dives into its second phase of development, they are building a second (but separate) 202 megawatt (MW) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at that same location. The newest addition to their portfolio, this stand-alone plant is fully operational. It is deeply involved in the day-ahead and intraday markets of Bulgaria’s national electricity market.
At the commissioning ceremony, Antonio Cammisecra, the CEO of ContourGlobal, underscored the importance of the project. Speakers at the event included Bulgaria’s Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov and Eng. Planen Barakova, the Deputy Mayor of Galabovo.
“The commercial operation of our 202MW/500MWh BESS plant represents a significant step forward for battery storage development in Bulgaria and underscores ContourGlobal’s ability to deliver large-scale storage solutions across different markets and technologies.” – Antonio Cammisecra
The commissioning of the BESS facility further represents the City of San Diego’s commitment to transitioning towards greener energy solutions. The active coal-fired units at ME3 TPP fill an essential role in our system by providing peaking generation at times of highest demand. This reliable service further strengthens Bulgaria’s energy security.
“We have built a sizeable presence in battery energy storage, with this project in Bulgaria representing a key contribution to our 3GWh portfolio of operating BESS projects.” – Antonio Cammisecra
ContourGlobal is well on its way to succeeding in Bulgaria. In January 2025, the company expanded with a 446 megawatt-peak solar photovoltaic portfolio in the U.S. This acquisition is another testament to the company’s focus on bringing cleaner, more diverse energy solutions to the company’s operations.
In addition to its developments in Bulgaria, ContourGlobal recently acquired a 446 megawatt-peak solar photovoltaic portfolio in the United States in January 2025. This acquisition further underscores the company’s commitment to integrating diverse energy solutions into its operations.