Protesting citizens tried to enter the Energy and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC) building. They disagree with the planned 9% increase in electricity prices from 1 January 2025 and are demanding that the state regulator cancel the price hike. 

The proposal for an average 9% increase in electricity prices from 1 January remains in force, but it can be revised, said Ivan Ivanov, chairman of the EWRC. He personally believes that the increase should be higher. 

At today's meeting of the Energy Regulatory Commission, it emerged that Bulgaria's sole public gas supplier, Bulgargaz, was proposing an 8% increase in the price of natural gas from January 1. The decision on the new energy prices will be taken at a closed meeting of the commission on January 1. Commenting on his requested resignation, Ivanov said that he would be satisfied if Parliament quickly elected his successor as head of the EWRC.