A smooth energy transition is an important element of the

A smooth energy transition is an important element of the Territorial Plans for a just transition and caring for those affected by this transition is a top priority. This was said by the Deputy Minister of Energy Krasimir Nenov during the discussion of the territorial plan for a just transition of Kyustendil region. Deputy took part in the discussion. – Minister of Regional Development and Public Works Angelina Boneva, Deputy Minister of Energy Iva Petrova, Mayor of Kyustendil Municipality Petar Paunov and Deputy Regional Governor of Kyustendil Kristiyan Ivanchov, representatives of the people, representatives of trade unions, eco and employer organizations, the local government and other interested parties. Guests of the discussion were also the mayor of Dupnitsa Municipality, Eng. The event is part of the joint information campaign of the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade with the interested parties to discuss the prospects for the energy transformation of the coal regions in the country. The meetings in places are focused on the possibilities of support under the " Regional Development 2021-2027 " program and the Just Transition Fund. The plans outline the vision for a smooth transition of the three coal regions in the country and are a key condition for the regions to benefit from 1.15 billion euros to support their transformation towards sustainable low-carbon production. The focus of the discussion was measures for the economic transformation of the Kyustendil region as one of the three coal regions in the country. According to Deputy Minister Krasimir Nenov, the planned large-scale mine reclamation and new economic activities are a prerequisite for creating quality and lasting employment. The plan for a just transition does not aim to close sites, but investments in new environmentally friendly productions and a better future for the affected coal regions, it was emphasized during the discussion. Focus was also placed on the implementation of decarbonization measures, creation of an adequate organization for environmentally friendly territorial management, gradual attraction of employees in new industries and activities, as well as joint research and development activities between academia and business. In her speech, the Deputy Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, Angelina Boneva emphasized that the most valuable resource is people and their attraction is extremely important. " We have to step on the local potential and we can do that only with an open dialogue ", she emphasized. Deputy Minister Boneva informed that the Kyustendil region will have access to over BGN 240 million to be used to support the economy, for the qualification and retraining of personnel, as well as for environmental measures related to the energy efficiency of buildings. The region has potential for the development of tourism, cultural and historical heritage and various creative industries. During the discussion, Krasimir Nenov singled out the Bobov dol thermal power plant as an important power that guarantees the stability of the country`s electricity system. The proximity of the plant to Sofia is also of key importance for the stable operation of the system. The information campaign of the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works will continue with a discussion with the interested parties in Stara Zagora as well.