Bulgarians are facing a new wave of rising costs, as water prices join electricity and gas in a meaningful increase. Effective January 1st, 2025, water rates climbed in 24 of bulgaria’s 28 regions, adding another layer of financial strain to households already grappling with inflation.
The Commission for Energy and Water Regulation (KEVR) approved these increases on December 19th, 2024. The hikes range from a modest 0.8% to a substantial 19.2%, with the most dramatic jump occurring in the Sliven region. There, the cost per cubic meter now sits at 4.65 Bulgarian Leva (BGN).
Other regions also experienced significant price increases. Shumen saw a 9% rise, reaching 5.97 BGN per cubic meter, while Troyan’s increase was 8.11%. Razgrad continues to hold the unfortunate title of having the most expensive water, at 6.22 BGN per cubic meter, though its increase was a more moderate 2.1%. Silistra follows closely behind at 6.12 BGN, with a 5.7% increase.
Regional Price Variations
A sampling of other regional prices includes: smolyan at 4.75 BGN, Varna at 4.60 BGN, Targovishte at 4.45 BGN,Stara Zagora at 4.35 BGN, and Ruse, Burgas, and Yambol all at 4.30 BGN. Montana and Pleven reported prices of 4.20 BGN per cubic meter.
Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, also saw another price increase. Following a 20% jump on October 1st, 2024, bringing the price to 3.53 BGN, the KEVR approved an additional 4% increase, resulting in a current price of 3.70 BGN per cubic meter. This represents a quarter increase since October.
the KEVR’s December 19th decision essentially ratified the requests submitted two months prior by regional water providers.While most regions faced increases, four experienced reductions: Lovech (-0.9%), Haskovo (-6.2%), Kardzhali (-1.2%), and Dobrich (-15.4%).
These price hikes in Bulgaria highlight a global trend of rising utility costs, prompting concerns about the affordability of essential services for many citizens. The situation underscores the need for enduring water management practices and obvious pricing policies worldwide.
