CEZ Power Utility Pleas Bulgarian Institutions to Counter Theft

In 2005 – 2009, the Czech-owned power utility CEZ has invested in western Bulgaria over BGN 370 M, according to company data. File photo

Bulgarian institutions must get involved in the serious problem of cable theft from electric posts, according to Yan Vavera, Regional Manager for Bulgaria of the Czech-owned power utility, CEZ.

In a letter to the media, sent Monday, Vavera is cited saying Bulgarian citizens' interests are threatened and need to be protected.

A company representative is further quoted telling the press that CEZ is guarding their cables as if they were ammunition warehouses, adding electric network must be deemed strategic national facility; such theft must be seen as sabotage and a danger for the national security and sanctions should be upped to even several years of jail time

CEZ say they have to invest BGN 2.5 M in the replacement of a key eclectic cable in Sofia after it suffered serious damage during a theft attempt in May, 2009. The cable serves 6 capital districts, including hospitals, schools and the Council of Ministers.

Since the beginning of 2008 to mid-2010, losses from theft amount to over BGN 16 M, which equals the building of 355 new posts, the company points out.

The cable would be installed under the most modern technology and if it does not get cut, it could serve Sofia in the next 30 years, according to CEZ. They also say 80% of the electric power facilities in the capital are obsolete.

Vavera further states in 2005 – 2009 the company invested in western Bulgaria over BGN 370 M, but the losses do not allow for investments in developing the network because lots of funds are used for equipment replacement.

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