Banks Boost Green Initiatives and Digital Services in Bulgaria

KBC Group Companies Report Strong Sustainability Achievements, DSK Bank Enhances Customer Experience

Leading financial groups UBB and DSK Bank are highlighting significant strides in sustainable development and customer-centric digital services, showcasing a dual commitment to environmental responsibility and enhanced user experience in Bulgaria.

UBB and KBC Group Advance Green Agenda

UBB, DZI, and other KBC Group entities in Bulgaria have unveiled a robust report detailing impressive sustainable development achievements. The group financed two large solar parks, totaling 139 MWP capacity, with an investment of €74.5 million, projected to generate over 201,520 MWh annually.

Further supporting energy efficiency, UBB backed the production of thermodynamic heaters and a mobile construction waste recycling unit. This unit is designed to process 55,000 tonnes of demolition waste yearly, transforming it into usable construction materials. This initiative supports one of Bulgaria’s largest construction firms.

For individual clients, UBB promoted energy-efficient housing through a specialized mortgage product. In 2024, loans totaling BGN 160 million were issued for such properties, with borrowers receiving preferential loan pricing for energy-efficient homes.

Frank Jansen, Executive Director of SME Banking, emphasized the group’s dedication to supporting businesses in their green transition. He stated, In UBB and DZI, we are working on sustainable decisions to become even more accessible-for both individual and business clients. He further noted successful partnerships with European and national financial institutions to bolster business resilience, innovation, and competitiveness in Bulgaria.

In sustainable transport, UBB Interlease reported that electric and hybrid cars constituted 9.73% of its new business fleet, surpassing its goals by 29%. The group’s fleet expanded with 129 electric and 70 hybrid vehicles, and 50 charging stations were installed nationwide for employees and customers.

DZI bolstered its societal contributions through partnerships for online medical consultations and enhanced VIP medical services. Its digital offerings include the Kaksi mobile app. The company also actively supports social and sports initiatives, including the Bulgarian Cycling Federation and a first aid program in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

KBC Group reported a substantial 83% reduction in its carbon footprint compared to 2015 levels, with 99% of its electricity sourced from renewables. The group is also investing in its own solar facilities and, through the “Blue Gora” initiative, employees have planted over 13,000 trees since 2019.

A 2023 report by the European Environment Agency indicated that Bulgaria’s renewable energy sources covered 19.1% of its gross final energy consumption, a figure that continues to grow. This aligns with the broader European Green Deal objectives. (Source: European Environment Agency, 2023)

DSK Bank Innovates Daily Banking Services

DSK Bank has seen rapid adoption of its new daily banking model, with one in five clients now utilizing personalized banking services. Introduced 12 months ago, the model offers bundled banking products with added benefits.

The DSK Mobile app has facilitated plan selection, with nearly 4,000 new customers choosing their package through the platform. The “salary” plan is the most popular, favored by over 60% of users.

These daily banking plans are designed for easier access to essential services like accounts, debit cards, and digital banking. Depending on the chosen plan, clients receive benefits such as free transfers and withdrawals. Customers can also reduce monthly fees by using their payment cards for purchases.

Among the six available plans, the “Premium” plan is highlighted as a leading model for modern banking, offering personalized service, travel perks, and access to exclusive offerings tailored to individual needs.

DSK Bank is offering a promotion for the premium plan: new and existing customers can enjoy the first two months without a monthly fee until September 1, 2025.

For younger clients, DSK Bank provides the DSK Start account for children aged 7-14, fostering early financial literacy. The DSK Teen account, for ages 14-18, allows young people to conduct banking operations and develop financial awareness, with parental oversight available for managing pocket money.

Michaela Temelkova stated, With the plans for daily banking, we made the banking more accessible, more comfortable and more useful for customers. In just a year, over half a million people chose this new way to manage their finances.

Additionally, customers selecting a salary or pension plan between August and November 2025 will have no monthly service fees until June 30, 2026, and will receive five free ATM withdrawals. This initiative aims to further attract and retain clients by offering tangible cost savings and convenience.