The international rating agency Standard & Poor`s raised the outlook

The international rating agency Standard & Poor`s raised the outlook of the National Electric Company from stable to positive and confirmed the long-term credit rating BB. The enhanced outlook means that the company manages its funds and loans in a reliable and balanced manner. The improved outlook represents another step forward after the agency raised NEC`s rating from BB- to BB last year due to improved credit metrics. S&P expects that after the liberalization of the retail market in 2026, the company`s profitability will improve and its indebtedness will decrease, which in turn could lead to an increase in the credit rating. " The increased perspective and the expectation of growth of the credit rating by the leading international rating agency S&P is an important success for the Bulgarian energy industry. This is the result of the consistent work and strategic support of the state. I am convinced that this success will contribute to the sustainability and development of our energy system, " commented Energy Minister Vladimir Malinov. S&P views NEC as a subsidiary of strategic importance to BEH, given NEC`s important role in Bulgaria`s energy system as an emission-free hydroelectric power producer, supplier of last resort and public electricity supplier. The rating agency also takes into account the fact that NEC managed to transform itself from a loss-making enterprise in a certain past period into a company that brings nearly 10% of BEH`s gross profit.