Poland consolidates its commitment to solar energy as a cornerstone of its energy transition, with historic results in the 2024 auctions. The Energy Regulatory Authority awarded more than 1.6 GW of renewable capacity, with solar projects dominating with 1,481 MW, while wind projects accounted for just 91 MW, distributed across only two projects.
According to Maciej Jakubik, an expert in EU regulations and policies at Forum Energii, this outcome demonstrates that “solar energy is taking a leading role due to its rapid development and decreasing costs.” The awarded prices ranged between PLN 244.80/MWh and PLN 334.77/MWh, approximately 57.98 EUR/MWh and 79.25 EUR/MWh, competitive figures that underline the maturity of the photovoltaic sector in Poland.
Competitive pricing and solar prospects
The appeal of solar energy in Poland lies not only in its rapid technological adoption but also in the decreasing costs of photovoltaic systems and advancements in efficiency. This year’s awarded contracts, totalling approximately PLN 5.1 billion (1.2 billion euros), reflect strong interest from both the private sector and consumers in clean energy at competitive prices.
Moreover, the photovoltaic sector is being bolstered by the increasing availability of European and national funds aimed at promoting decarbonisation. In 2023, Poland recorded a significant increase in the installation of rooftop solar panels in residential and commercial buildings, driven by subsidies under the «My Current» programme. This momentum has also contributed to reducing coal dependency, a strategic goal for the country.
Jakubik notes that “the prices observed in the auctions suggest sustained growth in the installation of solar plants.” This optimism is further supported by regulatory plans for new auctions in 2025, which will involve a volume of 75,900,000 MWh, according to the regulatory agency.
The stagnation of wind energy
While the auction results are promising for solar energy, the wind sector faces significant hurdles. Only two wind projects secured contracts this year, highlighting stagnation caused by delays in reforming the minimum distance law for wind turbines. This regulatory framework has hindered the expansion of onshore projects, which have historically been a key source of renewable capacity in Poland.
Misalignment in regulatory policies has been criticised by multiple sector stakeholders, who argue that legislative delays are slowing down the diversification of the energy mix. Despite these challenges, there is a shift towards using power purchase agreements (PPAs) as a solution to finance wind projects outside the auction system.
Towards a sustainable auction system until 2027
Poland’s auction system, which remains in place until 2027, is shaping up to be a cornerstone for achieving the country’s climate and energy goals. The government plans to optimise the bidding processes, diversify technologies, and increase transparency to attract investments.
In this context, solar energy continues to lead, and its dominance is a clear sign of transformation. However, the country needs to address the structural issues affecting wind energy to achieve balance in its energy mix. According to Jakubik, “This year’s auction successes strengthen market confidence in the country’s renewable potential and set a precedent for future auctions.”
Policies for a renewable future
Poland’s commitment to renewable energy is also evident in its plans to enhance its electrical infrastructure. Expanding smart grids and implementing storage technologies are key objectives to ensure the integration of new solar and wind plants. In 2025, the government plans to allocate 200 million euros to modernising grid projects, potentially increasing connection capacity for new installations.
Additionally, expectations for the 2025 auctions are high, especially with the potential inclusion of new support schemes for emerging technologies such as energy storage. So far, storage has benefited mostly from Capacity Market auctions; however, there are plans for a specific program dedicated solely to energy storage, with over 5 billion PLN allocated to support its development. These developments aim not only to meet energy demand but also to position Poland as a regional leader in renewable energy.
Poland is progressing towards an energy transition dominated by renewables but must overcome regulatory barriers that limit the expansion of certain technologies. Meanwhile, the leadership of solar energy stands out as an opportunity to strengthen energy independence and reduce emissions, aligning with the European Union’s objectives.
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