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| Updated | June 29, 2025 |
National Strategy and Climate Targets
Poland is accelerating its shift toward renewable energy as it aligns with the EU's climate goals. The Energy Policy of Poland 2040 (PEP2040) outlines a path to carbon neutrality by 2050, reducing reliance on coal while expanding solar, wind, and nuclear power. Key targets include 45 GW of solar, 41 GW of onshore wind, and 18 GW of offshore wind by 2040. Poland's first nuclear reactor is scheduled for 2033, contributing to an estimated 6–9 GW of nuclear capacity by 2040. Economic models suggest that reaching net-zero emissions could boost Poland's GDP by 4% by 2050, though this transition requires $450 billion in investment. To support this, the government has committed $16 billion to upgrade the power grid by 2034.
Solar Energy: Growth and Policy Support
Solar energy has become a cornerstone of Poland's renewable transition. By 2024, solar capacity reached 17.31 GW, generating 11% of the country’s electricity. The market has grown significantly, with output rising 677% from 2020 to 2024. The government's "Mój Prąd" program has incentivized residential solar adoption, resulting in over 1.4 million micro-installations totaling 11.3 GW. Utility-scale projects are also expanding, including RWE’s solar farms in Deszczno. Technological improvements such as high-efficiency and bifacial panels have lowered costs, making solar competitive with coal and gas.
Poland's NECP targets 56% renewable electricity by 2030, while PEP2040 sets a 32% renewable electricity target. Both frameworks emphasize solar development. RES auctions and subsidies from the National Fund for Environmental Protection support deployment, especially for small-scale systems. In 2025, Poland plans auctions for 75.9 TWh of renewable power, covering solar, hydropower, bioliquids, and geothermal.
Wind Power Expansion
Biomass and Hydropower:
Supplementary Sources Biomass is used in hundreds of power plants and 39 co-firing CHP facilities. The Polaniec Biomass Power Plant alone prevents 1.2 million tons of CO₂ annually, with a capacity raised from 190 MW to 205 MW. Hydropower remains underutilized, with only 24% of its economic potential tapped. Modernization projects, such as at the Gubin Hydroelectric Power Plant, could increase output by 10%, enhancing Poland’s sustainable capacity.
Challenges and Bottlenecks
Conclusion
Poland has made significant strides in expanding its renewable energy landscape, particularly in solar and wind. With ambitious national targets and EU-aligned policy frameworks, the country is positioning itself as a regional leader in clean energy. However, to fully realize its goals, Poland must address grid bottlenecks, streamline permitting processes, and establish clearer policies for storage. Doing so will be essential to securing a sustainable, decarbonized energy future by 2050.