Croatian engineering group Končar has further expanded its presence in southeastern Europe after being selected to carry out a major modernization of two hydropower plants in Bulgaria. The project was awarded following a public procurement procedure organized by the state-owned power utility NEK and covers a comprehensive overhaul of the Teshel and Devin plants, which are part of the Dospat–Vacha cascade.
The scope of work includes replacement of key technological systems, such as automation and control platforms, excitation and turbine regulation systems, as well as protection equipment for generators, transformers and entire production units. Although Končar did not disclose the contract value, Bulgarian public procurement data indicate that the project is worth around €4.9 million excluding VAT.
The upgrades are expected to significantly extend the operational lifetime of the two hydropower plants and enhance their reliability within Bulgaria’s electricity system.
This latest assignment builds on Končar’s growing track record in the Bulgarian market. In recent years, the company completed several hydropower-related projects, including the full reconstruction of the Vacha-1 plant in 2022, together with its 110 kV substation and supporting infrastructure. By securing the Teshel and Devin modernization, Končar strengthens its position in a market where it was previously not strongly represented, having delivered four hydropower projects in Bulgaria over the past six years, two of which are considered strategically important for the country’s power system.