Position of ENERGO-PRO in relation to the claim of the CPC

In connection with the claim made by the Commission for Protection of Competition (CPC) about abuse of a dominant position by ENERGO-PRO Networks regarding “slowing down the process of connection of a producer of electricity from renewable energy to the electricity distribution network”, we would like to inform you that, having familiarized yourself with all the arguments of the CPC set out in the document, the company will state its objections to the allegation made. In its actions ENERGO-PRO Grids strictly complies with the regulatory and legal requirements and has not allowed situations of unequal treatment or unjustified delay in the connection of producers of energy from renewable energy sources (RES). The specific statement of the CPC refers to the connection of a photovoltaic power plant on the territory of Dobrich municipality, owned by “V2M” Ltd. During the procedure for connecting the power plant to the electricity distribution network owned by ENERGO-PRO Networks AD (formerly E.ON Bulgaria Networks AD), the company fulfilled its obligations assumed with the concluded connection agreements in compliance with the current Bulgarian legislation. The producer “V2M” Ltd. was informed in due time that the distribution company should coordinate the terms of connection of the plant with NEC EAD. This obligation, arising from Ordinance 6 for connection of producers and consumers of electric energy to the transmission and distribution electrical networks, is specified in the preliminary contract between “B2M” Ltd. and ENERGO-PRO Grids AD. The delay that “V2M” Ltd. claims to be present is precisely within the coordination process with NEC EAD. The case was also considered by the State Commission for Energy and Water Regulation (DCEVR). The Commission's instructions are for NEC EAD to conclude a contract with the distribution company and the distribution company with the manufacturer. These guidelines have been duly complied with. Immediately after the conclusion of a final contract between the distribution company and NEC EAD, the corresponding final contract was concluded between ENERGO-PRO Grids AD and “V2M” OOD, as a result of which the plant was connected to the electricity distribution network and put under voltage in June 2012.ENERGO-PRO Grids categorically declares that it carries out the merger the operation of renewable energy plants, fulfilling their legal obligations, including the mandatory instructions of the independent state regulator. The company strictly follows the principles of equality and fairness and rejects any allegations of abuse of a dominant position.