The study released by the Polish Economic Institute (PIE) reveals a remarkable drive towards renewables in Poland's energy landscape since 2004, juxtaposed against a notable decline in electricity derived from hard coal and lignite over the same period.
"In 2004, coal accounted for 94% of electricity production, while renewable energy sources only contributed 3%. However, by 2023 renewable energy sources made up 27% of electricity production, with coal accounting for 59%," the report highlighted.
The transition owes much to the infusion of European Union funds, which played a pivotal role in facilitating the modernization and expansion of critical energy infrastructure.
The report estimates that EU energy subsidies amounted to approximately PLN 55 billion (EUR 12.7 billion), catalyzing transformative initiatives in thermal modernization and transmission network enhancement. A significant portion of these funds, approximately PLN 11.1 billion (EUR 2.57 billion), was allocated towards thermal modernization efforts, bolstering energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Moreover, transmission networks received vital funding of approximately PLN 3.03 billion (EUR 703 million), fortifying the backbone of Poland's energy infrastructure.
The burgeoning renewable energy sector has reaped substantial benefits from EU support, with onshore wind farms emerging as key beneficiaries. Grants totaling PLN 1.9 billion (EUR 44 million) have been directed towards the development and expansion of onshore wind farms.
(jh)
Source: PAP