The price of the electric power will rise by 10% to 20% in 2002, experts from the State Energy Agency (DAEER) announced. The rise is inevitable for new power capacities are put to operation, producing more expensive electricity. The cheap electric power now comes from old power plants, which are to be decommissioned soon. After 2007, Bulgaria would have to meet the EU ecological requirements. In most of the thermal plants throughout the state sulphur-purifiers are to be built and thus meeting the annual quota on the pollutants. In 2003-2004 the price of electricity is to rise. Till 2006 the electricity prices should reach the European ones. Electricity in the EU costs from 5 to 8 cents per kWh, while in Bulgaria the most expensive electricity costs 4 cents per kWh. So far, the electricity for public utilities will remain cheaper than that for the industry.