The Bulgarians believe in a nuclear solution

Power consumption and power generation in Bulgaria are considered. Coal production is insufficient to supply all the expected demand. Hydroelectricity has suffered because of recent droughts and accounts for only 7% of capacity. The alternative is nuclear power and Bulgaria is committed to a programme of nuclear reactor building. By 1990 nuclear-generated electricity should make up 40% of the country's total requirement. There are plans to raise this to 60% by the year 2000. The reactors under construction or planned are discussed. Nuclear power is also being planned for district heating. Although Chernobyl has caused a move against nuclear power in the West the Bulgarians feel they have no choice but to extend its use. (U.K.)