Nearly 10% of the new business of UBB Interlease comprises leasing of hybrid and electric vehicles

 UBB, DZI and the other KBC Group companies in Bulgaria report impressive achievements in the sustainable development domain over the past year, according to their published  2024 Report to Society. The financial group not only affirms its leadership position in promoting a greener and more sustainable business model, but also demonstrates permanent engagement to society and the protection of the environment.

Some of the key success highlights are the funding of two large-scale photovoltaic parks of total capacity 139 MWp and annual output of 201 520 MWh, realized with an investment of EUR 74.5 million. UBB has also supported innovations in the energy efficiency domain through funding the manufacturing of thermodynamic heaters with production output exceeding 200 000 pieces per annum, as well as a mobile installation for construction waste recycling. The said installation will be also used for recycling and upcycling of 55 000 tons of demolition waste per annum, which will enable the biggest construction company in Bulgaria to re-process and re-purpose construction waste into construction materials.

Energy efficiency in daily life is being promoted through a dedicated mortgage product for energy efficient homes, through which in 2024 provided loans total to BGN 160 million. UBB customers get a discount on the loan price, if they choose to purchase a home of a higher energy class.

Frank Jansen, Executive Director SME Banking at UBB also explained the role of the financial group in supporting business customers and their green transition: „We at UBB and DZI work for making sustainable solution even more affordable – for both individuals, and for companies. Thanks to our successful partnerships with European and local financial institutions we continue supporting the development of businesses in Bulgaria through special financial instruments, targeting sustainability, innovations and competitiveness. In 2024 we concluded over 1000 new deals in financial instruments of total value EUR 342 million, including loans under the NGF-7, RRF Competitiveness, RRF Sustainability, Invest EU Competitiveness, Invest EU Sustainability, InvestEU Innovation and EIB programmes.“

In terms of the sustainable transport domain UBB Interlease reports 9.73% share of electric and hybrid vehicles in its new business, thus exceeding planned targets with 29%. The vehicle fleets of UBB and DZI have acquired 129 electric and 70 hybrid cars, and nationwide there are 50 charging stations for electric vehicles installed, accessible to employees and customers.

DZI affirms its commitment to health and society through partnerships for online medical consultations, expansion of the VIP medical services and digital solutions, such as the mobile app Kaksi. The company supports a number of social and sports initiatives, including the Bulgarian Cycling Federation and the First Aid Academy, realized in partnership with the Ministry of Education.

KBC Group also reports substantial progress in the reduction of its carbon footprint - by 83% as compared the base year 2015, and 99% of the used electricity is of renewable origin. The company also invests in the construction of solar plants of its own, and through the Blue Forest initiative its employees have planted more than 13 000 saplings since 2019 up until now.

UBB, DZI and the other KBC Group entities in Bulgaria continue being the engine of positive change - not only though innovative products and responsible investments, but also through the active support for local communities and commitment to Bulgaria’s sustainable future.