In Poland, electricity consumption from September 2025 to August 2026 shows a heavy reliance on fossil fuels, with more than half of the country's electricity being generated from coal. Fossil energy, which includes both coal and gas, makes up about two-thirds of the total electricity consumption. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources contribute nearly a third to the electricity supply. Wind and solar energy, both classified as clean energy sources, each account for approximately 13-14% of the electricity consumed. Other low-carbon sources, such as biofuels and hydropower, contribute smaller shares, with hydropower being close to none at just 1.65%.

Is Electricity Growing in Poland?

While Poland’s total electricity consumption per person has decreased since its peak in 2018, when it was 4596 kWh, the current figure stands at 4340 kWh/person, which is a reduction of 256 kWh/person. However, there is a positive development in low-carbon electricity generation. The latest figures show 1425 kWh/person attributed to low-carbon energy, marking an increase of 43 kWh/person over the previous record in 2025. This uptick in clean energy is a promising sign, yet the overall decline in electricity use signals potential challenges in meeting future demands, especially with the anticipated growth in electrification and digitalization driven by advancements like AI.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Poland should consider expanding its successful solar and wind technologies, already contributing significantly to the grid. By looking at regions like Denmark and Iowa, where wind contributes to over half of electricity generation, Poland can gain insights into scaling up its wind capabilities. Meanwhile, countries such as France, Slovakia, and Ukraine demonstrate the significant impact nuclear energy can have, with nuclear providing more than half of their electricity. Poland could benefit greatly from investing in nuclear infrastructure, complementing its existing solar and wind resources to strengthen its low-carbon energy mix and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

History

Historically, Poland has seen several notable increases in its low-carbon electricity generation. In 1990, hydropower made a notable contribution, while shifts in the 2000s and 2010s largely came from wind and solar power. Wind energy saw significant growth, particularly between 2011 and 2017, despite some fluctuations in output. In recent years, solar energy has seen rapid expansion, especially between 2021 and 2024, with major boosts recorded annually. These historical trends highlight Poland's capacity to expand its low-carbon electricity infrastructure, despite occasional setbacks. The substantial gains in wind and solar, particularly, set a strong precedent for further development in these areas and highlight the potential benefits of introducing nuclear energy into the mix.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Sep 2025 – Aug 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.