"United Group is entering the renewable energy sector with an initial investment of 120 million euros in Bulgaria. This is a bold step and a natural next move for us," said United Group CEO Viktorija Boklag.
Boklag stated at the United Group summit in Sofia that the investment includes three solar power plants, one of which is already in operation, as well as a large wind farm, which will become one of the few such facilities in Bulgaria.
“Together, these projects will produce around 310.000 megawatt-hours per year. By 2027, these plants will produce 160 percent of the electricity needed for our operations in Bulgaria – covering 65 percent of our Group’s total electricity consumption. This is not just about launching our business, it is about launching Bulgaria’s transition to green energy,” said Boklag.
“Since entering Bulgaria in 2020 with the acquisition of Vivacom, we have invested 2,5 billion euros in technology and innovation. We have introduced the first commercial 5G network in the country – which is now the largest in Bulgaria. We have introduced the first 10 GIGA fiber networks in Bulgaria, launched the first 5G Unlimited mobile packages and transformed the way people communicate, connect and entertain,” she added.
She said that today they are proud to reach almost 1,5 million households with the FTTH network and cover 91 percent of the population with the 5G network.
“And with Nova and our other media brands, we are part of people's everyday lives in a way that goes beyond technology,” she stated.
The solar power plants will be built on converted industrial land to reduce environmental impact, said the CEO of United Group, adding that the wind farm, located in northeastern Bulgaria, will significantly contribute to Bulgaria's energy future.
A new vision for the future
For the United Group, sustainability is not just a responsibility, but as Boklag stated, it is an opportunity to set an example for others.
“By integrating renewable energy into our operations, we are not just reducing costs or meeting energy needs, we are setting new standards for our industry. This is about building resilience. Enabling the next wave of digital innovation – from artificial intelligence to electric vehicles. Supporting the EU’s climate goals while fueling economic growth. Most importantly, this is about creating a better world for generations to come,” she said.
The CEO of United Group said that the company's goal is to achieve zero carbon emissions across its entire value chain by 2040.
“Ambitious, we know, but achievable. Today’s announcement is a big step forward. But we can’t do it alone. Collaboration is key. Governments, businesses and communities must work together to create lasting solutions. This is not just a United Group journey; this is a shared mission. So as we take this step, United Group is no longer just a telecommunications and media company. We are now an energy company too – driving change, leading by example and showing that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. Thank you for being part of this transformative moment,” she said.
"Renewable energy sources are no longer an option, but a necessity"
She added that today marks an important milestone on the path of United Group.
"Growth, innovation and sustainability have always been at the heart of what we do, and today we are taking all of that to a whole new level," said Boklag.
As the leading telecommunications and media group in Southeast Europe, United Group has always been a pioneer, emphasizes the CEO of United Group.
"We have built a digital infrastructure that connects millions of people across the region and enables advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, virtual reality and much more. It is exciting, transformative – but also challenging. It is true that the digital revolution comes at a price, and that is energy consumption. Telecommunications networks and data centers consume enormous amounts of energy, relying mainly on electricity. This is not just a technical issue, it is a sustainability challenge. The demand for data is constantly growing, and with it the need for innovative energy solutions. At United Group, we believe that renewable energy sources are no longer an option, but a necessity," she said.
"In Southeastern Europe, this need is even more urgent. We are faced with outdated coal-based energy systems, economic vulnerabilities and growing risks from climate change. The time for action is not tomorrow, but now," Boklag added.
(United Group)
