Gov't adopts energy policy 2040
The government on Tuesday adopted Poland's new energy policy, valid till 2040, which is based on a just transformation of energy generation, a zero-emission energy system and air quality.
According to the government's press service, a low-emission energy transformation will foster modernisation across the Polish economy while ensuring energy security, a just division of costs and protection of the most vulnerable social groups.
Clean air is to be a key result of the transformation, one that can be appreciated by all citizens.
An improvement in air quality is to be achieved through investments in the transformation of the heating sector, electrification of transport and promotion of passive and zero-emission homes that use local sources of energy.
The new strategy also seeks to reduce the use of coal in the economy through "a just transformation."
According to the government, a just transformation means that regions and communities most affected by negative consequences of the energy transformation will be offered new development possibilities.
According to the new guidelines, renewable energy will constitute at least 23 percent of final energy consumption by 2030. Wind farms will generate 5.9 GW of power by 2030 and 11 GW by 2040. In 2033, Poland will launch the first unit of the country's first nuclear plant, generating some 1-1.6 GW of power. Subsequent nuclear units will be started every 2 to 3 years until the target of 6 units is reached.
Poland also aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 30 percent by 2030, as compared to 1990. By 2040, all households will be kept warm by district heating or by zero- or low-emission individual heating units.
Natural gas, oil and liquid fuel infrastructure will be expanded while ensuring diversification of supplies.
The government estimates the energy transformation may create up to 300,000 new jobs in the sectors of renewable and nuclear energy, electric mobility, network infrastructure, digitisation and insulation of buildings.
