Transforming Energy. Industry. Society.
Translating Climate Neutrality Targets into Knowledge-Based Realities
The Net-Zero Lab is a unit established at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration of Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”. It is committed to providing actionable knowledge on how to effectively translate climate-neutrality targets into tangible actions, driving evidence-based and just sustainable transformation in Bulgaria and the region.
Our Team
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Atanas Georgiev
Director of the Net-zero Lab
Dean, Head of the Department “Industrial Economics and Management ” and Director of the Master’s program “Energy Markets and Services” at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”
Dr. Mariya Trifonova
Deputy Director of the Net-zero Lab
She has 12+ years of experience in renewable energy, specializing in participatory processes for transitioning coal regions in Bulgaria and modeling decarbonization pathways.
Lyubimka Georgieva
Research Assistant in Citizens Energy
She specializes in the energy sector with a focus on renewable energy, active citizen engagement, and women empowerment in green transformation. She also has expertise in data modeling and analysis.
Verzhinia Ivanova
Research Assistant in Energy System Flexibility
Passionate and dedicated young professional with expertise in the energy sector transformation and digitalization. She contributes to shaping the smart grid of the future with enthusiasm and commitment while focusing on areas such as renewables, flexibility services and market design, IoT, and AI to name a few.
Kaloyan Milushev
Reserach Fellow
Specializing in shaping the policy in new markets for energy storage across Europe with additional expertise in developing market outlook forecasting tools and business case modelling for utility scale energy storage projects. Previous experience in developing pricing models for power trading and total cost of ownership data tools for heavy duty electric vehicles.
Bozhil Kondev
Reserach Fellow
Bozhil Kondev is an energy and climate change expert and his research focuses on climate risks for the energy transition and sustainable finance. Alongside his work at the lab, Bozhil is involved as an independent energy expert in several technical assistance projects of international financial institutions in Eastern Europe, Asia and Africa.
Maya Todorova
Project Coordinator
She focuses on improving work processes, ensuring clear communication, and handling administrative tasks. With experience in data analysis and using AI tools to help make everyday operations more efficient and effective.
Nursen Syuleyman
Research Assistant
She is actively involved in various research projects, gathering and analyzing data to support project objectives. By applying advanced methodologies, she ensures both precision and efficiency. Her contributions, ranging from creative ideas to strategic planning, are essential for driving success and optimizing results.
Remina Aleksieva
Reserach Fellow
Remina Aleksieva holds a master’s degree in international public policy and a master’s degree in law (due in 2026). She has experience in the non-governmental and research sectors and works in the field of energy and climate policy. Her main research focus is on renewable energy, citizen engagement and energy and climate legal and regulatory compliance.
Petya Kayryakova
Reserach Fellow
A people-focused climate communicator with 20+ years of experience in partnerships, messaging, and community-building. Petya explores climate communication and social acceptance. Blending corporate expertise with cultural adaptability, she navigates complex topics and translates them to engaging narratives that inspire action and drive meaningful change.
Expertise
Techno–economic assessments
of technological solutions in the energy and industry sectors necessary to meet the Net-Zero target
Decision-support tools
such as energy system simulation and optimization, regional technology roadmaps for the sustainable transformation, life cycle carbon assessments
Applied research for societal transformation
- assessing human resource needs for a sustainable future
- fostering social partnerships
- empowering individuals and communities to drive meaningful change
Publications
Analysis of Available Financial Mechanisms in Support of Energy Communities
Raw Materials, Critical Choices – The Backbone of Bulgaria’s Low-Carbon Future
Research and Innovation in Support of Energy Technologies – Opportunities and Challenges for Bulgaria
Factors influencing natural gas price developments in Bulgaria
News
- New Analysis on Financial and Technical Support Mechanisms for Energy Communities Now PublishedA comprehensive new study developed as part of the collaboration between the Net-Zero Lab and Greenpeace Bulgaria sheds light on how local energy communities in Bulgaria can secure the funding and technical support they need to grow. The report “Analysis of Available Financial Mechanisms in Support of Energy Communities” maps out the current financial landscape …
- Bulgaria on the Map of Energy Innovation: Net-Zero Lab Presents New Report on Clean Technologies
Sofia, 21 October 2025 — The Net-Zero Lab at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski,” organized a conference dedicated to accelerating the deployment of key low-carbon energy technologies in Bulgaria. The event brought together leading experts from academia, business, and government to discuss the challenges and potential of the … - Strategic Energy Technologies: Bulgaria on the Path of Innovation in Data Centers, Energy Storage, and Green FuelsNet-Zero Lab at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” is organizing a conference on October 21, 2025, at Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia, dedicated to Bulgaria’s innovation potential in strategic energy technologies. Bulgaria ranks among the last in Europe in terms of innovation capacity, yet it has the potential to establish itself as a leader in specific …
- The Real Price of Electricity: Billions of Leva in Subsidies Remain Invisible on Household Bills
The latest video by Net-Zero Lab, part of the educational campaign “Informed Consumer Choice” reveals the hidden cost of electricity and shows the steps households can take to benefit from the liberalized market. In the episode “The Real Price of Electricity and the Steps to Switching Suppliers” it is shown that behind the perception of … - Nearly 30% of Bulgarian Households Are Energy Poor – Urgent Protection Measures Needed Before the Liberalization of the Electricity Market
In the latest educational video from the “Informed Consumer Choice” series by Net-Zero Lab at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Sofia University, energy expert Assoc. Prof. Teodora Peneva, PhD, from BAS discusses the challenges of energy poverty in Bulgaria and presents solutions inspired by European practice. Low incomes, high energy costs, limited creditworthiness …
Partners
Collaboration drives innovation towards a sustainable future.
We recognize the critical role of the private sector in advancing net-zero initiatives, inviting businesses to join us in fostering regional clean energy markets, transforming industrial processes, and enhancing supply chain sustainability.
The Net Zero lab opens its doors for businesses to engage in strategic partnerships within our areas of expertise. We believe in the power of technology transfer and upscaling to achieve net-zero targets. By facilitating collaboration, we aim to drive the growth of sustainable practices.
Our focus on cluster-based decarbonization is a key aspect. Through the “Partner with Us” program, businesses can actively contribute to the development and execution of these strategies. This collaborative approach ensures a holistic transformation of industries, paving the way for a resilient, low-carbon future.
Partner with us to make a lasting impact on innovation, clean energy, and sustainable industrial and societal practices. Together, we can build a greener, more resilient tomorrow.
Contact
Net-Zero Lab at Faculty of Economics and Business Administration Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski
1113 Sofia, 125 Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd., bl.3
netzero@feb.uni-sofia.bg
