Poland's energy mix shifts toward renewables as coal usage declines

Poland's energy mix is undergoing a significant shift toward renewable energy sources (RES). On September 5, renewables accounted for nearly 60% of electricity generation, totaling 241 GWh. Wind power led this contribution at 37.4%, followed by photovoltaics at 17.2%. In contrast, coal's share has declined, with hard coal contributing 22.9% and lignite 9.4% during the same period.

This transition follows a record-breaking May where solar power contributed over 3 TWh (21% of the mix) and onshore wind capacity exceeded 11 GW. Early data also indicates contributions from offshore wind assets, such as the Baltic Power farm.

Regarding policy, Michał Hetmański, president of the Instrat Foundation, evaluated the first year of the Ministry of Energy's operations. While praising the introduction of the CPN package and the completion of the National Energy and Climate Plan (KPEiK), he noted challenges regarding the coordination of RES competencies between ministries and the need for better government projections on energy market changes to assist business planning.