As of 2024, electricity generation in Poland is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with coal powering slightly more than half of the country's electricity needs. Overall, fossil fuel-based sources account for approximately 69% of Poland's electricity. Meanwhile, low-carbon sources contribute to nearly 30% of electricity consumption, signifying an important if still minority role in the energy mix. Wind emerges as the leading source within the low-carbon category, representing about 14% of Poland's electricity generation. Solar energy, though less substantial, still provides close to 9%, showcasing its growing role in the energy landscape. Hydropower remains a marginal contributor, at just over 1%. Gas, which falls under fossil-based energy, adds roughly 12% to the energy mix, while biofuels contribute almost 5%, remaining a consistent but small fraction of low-carbon contribution.
Is Electricity Growing in Poland?
Despite Poland's historical ties to coal, recent years have witnessed changes in electricity consumption patterns. The latest consumption stands at 4438 kWh per person, marking a decline from the peak of 4723 kWh per person in 2021. This downturn of 285 kWh suggests a worrying trend in overall electricity demand. However, there is a positive development in low-carbon electricity generation, which has climbed to 1311 kWh per person. This marks a 155 kWh per person increase since 2023, highlighting promising growth in sustainable energy sectors despite the overall decline in electricity consumption.
Suggestions
To further elevate low-carbon electricity generation, Poland could expand its existing wind farms to build on their success. Learning from countries with successful nuclear programs, such as Slovakia and the Czech Republic, could provide valuable insights into boosting nuclear energy's share. Additionally, Denmark's leadership in wind power, where it accounts for more than half of their electricity generation, offers inspiration for Poland to leverage its wind potential even further. By investing in both solar and nuclear energy, Poland can significantly increase its capacity for clean electricity, meeting future demands and lessening the detrimental impacts of fossil fuels on both climate and public health.
History
In the past decade, Poland has seen substantial advancements in low-carbon electricity, particularly with wind energy. Early 2010s experienced steady growth in wind energy with annual increases of over 1.5 TWh, peaking in 2015 with a 3.2 TWh boost. Even though 2018 saw a brief dip, the last years have witnessed a resurgence in both wind and solar powers. Solar has been particularly impressive, with notable expansions from 2020 onwards, culminating in a 4.1 TWh growth in 2024. These developments signify an exciting era of transformation towards cleaner electricity production. While Poland's reliance on fossil fuels persists, the strides in low-carbon electricity, especially in wind and solar, represent vital steps forward in transforming the electricity sector.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.