Bełchatów Power Plant on Elevated Readiness as Poland Plans Deepest Artificial Lake

Poland’s largest coal‑fired power station in Bełchatów has been placed on heightened operational readiness in response to an intense heat wave. PGE GiEK reported that staff, cooling systems and backup resources are being monitored closely to maintain stable electricity production despite temperatures reaching up to 40 °C.

Separately, PGE’s mining division has detailed long‑term plans to transform the exhausted Bełchatów open‑pit mine into Poland’s deepest artificial lake. After coal extraction is expected to cease around 2036, the site will be flooded over 17‑19 years, creating a reservoir up to 190‑195 m deep and offering new recreational and tourism opportunities for the region.