The Polish government has recently announced a significant policy initiative aimed at advancing the country’s net-zero carbon emissions goals, with a particular focus on energy storage solutions. This comes on the heels of a historic €1.2 billion ($1.3 Billion) allocation from the European Commission, specifically designed to support the installation of at least 5.4 GWh of new electricity storage facilities.
The €1.2 billion aid will facilitate the construction of these storage facilities, which are crucial for reducing the reliance of the Polish electricity system on fossil fuels. By integrating variable renewable energy sources into the national grid, this initiative aims to enhance energy security and promote a greener energy mix. The aid will be provided in the form of direct grants and loans, ensuring that investment costs are covered for small and medium-sized enterprises.
In addition to this European funding, the Polish government has secured a further 10 billion złoty ($2.4 billion) from the European Investment Bank(EIB) to support four key areas of its energy transition plan. These areas include:
- Energy Storage Facilities: Over 4 billion złoty will be dedicated to improving the stability of the National Power Grid through the construction of energy storage facilities (≥2MW, ≥4MWh). The funding will provide support in the form of grants covering 45% to 65% of the total investment costs, depending on the size of the applying entity.
- Heavy-Duty Charging Infrastructure: With a budget of 2 billion złoty, this program aims to develop infrastructure for public high-capacity charging stations, strategically located along major transport routes. This initiative is intended to reduce CO2 emissions from heavy-duty vehicles and improve air quality.
- Support for Zero-Emission Vehicles: Another 2 billion złoty will be allocated to promote the purchase or leasing of eligible zero-emission vehicles, with support covering 30-60% of the costs, depending on vehicle type and size.
- Energy for Rural Areas: An additional 2 billion złoty will expand an existing program that supports renewable energy production and storage in rural communities. This initiative aims to enhance energy independence and sustainability in Poland’s agricultural sector.
The Polish Minister of Climate and Environment, Paulina Hennig-Kloska, emphasized the importance of these initiatives during a recent press conference, stating, “Poland will soon see professional energy storage systems enhancing our energy security, zero-emission trucks on highways, and our rural areas will produce more clean energy.”
Further Reading: Mój Prąd Rebate Program
As part of these developments, the Polish government has announced the sixth phase of the “My Electricity” (Mój Prąd) rebate program, which began accepting applications in early September. This initiative allocates a total of 400 million złoty ($100 million) in subsidies for household solar photovoltaic systems, energy storage, and heat storage systems.
Eligible participants can receive funding for micro-installations, with subsidies covering up to 50% of the costs for various components. Importantly, all household photovoltaic systems must be grid-connected to qualify for the rebate. Off-grid systems do not meet the rebate standards.
These comprehensive measures illustrate Poland’s commitment to a sustainable energy future, leveraging both national and European resources to facilitate a smooth transition to a low-carbon economy.
For more details on the “My Electricity” rebate program, please visit the official website here.
Official Information Source:
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_4985
