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.
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
News
- Net-Zero Lab and APSTE Launch Partnership to Enhance Energy System Flexibility
On February 12, 2025, Net-Zero Lab and the Association for Production, Storage, and Trading of Electricity (APSTE) officially launched their partnership during a high-level discussion forum on “Flexibility of a Renewable Energy-Dominated Power System: Business Solutions and Academic Partnerships.” Held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Sofia, the event gathered leading experts from the energy sector, …Net-Zero Lab and APSTE Launch Partnership to Enhance Energy System Flexibility Read More »
- Results from the Competition for Female Leaders and Key Takeaways from the Memorable Energy Alumni Networking Event
In a world where sustainability and innovation are becoming increasingly intertwined, one young woman has captured the spotlight with her groundbreaking business idea. Ladelaida Lagadova, a Bachelor’s student in Economics and Finance at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration (FEBA) of Sofia University, has been recognized in the competition for the best business idea … - Invitation to Expert Meeting on Energy Transition and Power System Flexibility
On February 12, 2025 Net-Zero Lab, in collaboration with APSTE, is hosting a panel discussion on “Power System Flexibility in a Renewable-Dominated Grid: Business Solutions & Academic Partnerships.” The event will take place at InterContinental Hotel, Sofia at 4:00 PM EET. With the increasing share of renewable energy sources (RES), ensuring system flexibility has become a …Invitation to Expert Meeting on Energy Transition and Power System Flexibility Read More »
- Female Entrepreneurship Lab Announces Competition for the Best Business Idea
The Female Entrepreneurship Lab at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Sofia University “St. Kl. Ohridski”, is launching a competition for women with innovative and sustainable business ideas in the energy sector. Under the title “Women Driving Carbon Neutrality: Business Ideas with a Future in the Energy Sector”, the initiative seeks to recognize concepts …Female Entrepreneurship Lab Announces Competition for the Best Business Idea Read More »
- Net-Zero Lab and Aurubis Bulgaria Join Forces on the Path to Carbon Neutrality
The Faculty of Economics and Business Administration’s research unit Net-Zero Lab signed a cooperation agreement with Aurubis Bulgaria AD. This partnership aims to support the achievement of carbon neutrality in Bulgarian industry through various joint initiatives, educational activities, and techno-economic analyses. Planned activities include specialized training and forums for industry representatives, promoting sustainable practices in …Net-Zero Lab and Aurubis Bulgaria Join Forces on the Path to Carbon Neutrality Read More »
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
