Poland seeks climate referendum and electrification plan as EU rules tighten

President Karol Nawrocki has filed a new request for a nationwide referendum on the European Union's climate policy, arguing that the EU emissions‑trading system (ETS) raises electricity costs and undermines the competitiveness of Polish industry. The move reflects growing opposition in Warsaw to EU climate regulations that Polish businesses say increase operating expenses and threaten the country's energy sector.

At the same time, the Polish Organisation for the Development of Heat‑Pump Technology (PORT PC) is urging the government to adopt a comprehensive national electrification plan. The proposal calls for a target of at least 35% of final energy consumption coming from electricity by 2035, removal of regulatory and fiscal barriers, and the appointment of a government envoy for electrification. Advocates say electrification will boost energy efficiency, reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, and create new value chains in heat‑pump, electric vehicle and energy‑storage technologies.

Both initiatives highlight Poland's effort to balance EU climate objectives with domestic economic and energy‑security concerns.