At the end of November 2023, the Bulgarian Council of Ministers approved the Energy Poverty Ordinance, defining vulnerable customers for electricity supply and households in energy poverty. Developed by an inter-ministerial working group, it considers income, energy consumption, and other factors. 

The ordinance aligns with recent changes to the Energy Act, basing eligibility on disposable income compared to the poverty line. Criteria for vulnerable customers include age, health, and need for medical devices. Disposable income calculation includes both taxable and non-taxable income, excluding scholarships. This initiative aims to provide assistance to those struggling with energy costs, ensuring access to electricity for all households in need.