Poland heating costs: Wood self-harvesting offers savings amid high pellet prices

As the heating season begins in Poland, residents face high costs for fuel such as pellet, which can exceed 2,600 PLN per ton for certified quality. While pellet availability has stabilized due to increased imports, prices remain elevated compared to previous months.

An alternative for cost reduction is the 'samowyrób' (self-harvesting) method offered by State Forests. By obtaining permission from a forester to collect branches, small wood, or clearing residues, individuals can acquire firewood at significantly lower rates. For example, in the Bydgoszcz Forest District, coniferous firewood prepared by the forestry service costs approximately 147.60 PLN per cubic meter, whereas self-harvested coniferous logs cost roughly 67.65 PLN per cubic meter.

Under this program, individuals can typically collect up to 30 cubic meters of wood per year from a single forest district. Users must coordinate with the local forester to receive written permission and must settle payments before leaving the forest area.