Poland plans to set end date for coal power

Poland is considering establishing a deadline to phase out coal-fired power, as stated by Urszula Zielinska, the country's Secretary of State for Climate, signaling a departure from the previous government's position on climate change.

Following the October 2023 election, which ended eight years of Law and Justice (PiS) party rule, the new government, according to Zielinska, is intensifying environmental initiatives, including determining a timeline for the reduction of coal power.

"We can plan effectively only with a set end date, and this applies to both industries and individuals. So, yes, we are definitely exploring the possibility of establishing a conclusive end date," she informed reporters in Brussels.

Poland currently relies on coal for approximately 70% of its energy, making it the most carbon-emitting fossil fuel. Despite an increase in wind and solar energy production in recent years, the previous government had reached an agreement with trade unions to continue coal mining until 2049. However, scientists argue that significant emissions reductions from coal burning are essential in this decade to avert severe climate change. U.N. Secretary General António Guterres has urged all countries within the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to phase out coal by 2030.

Zielinska, appointed in December, mentioned that the new government is reassessing Poland's climate and energy plans. Any modifications, she emphasized, would prioritize supporting affected workers and industries. "We are conducting a comprehensive review to enhance efforts and ensure a smooth transition for both industries and individuals into new environmentally friendly sectors," she explained.

This represents a shift in Poland's stance, considering its historical resistance to certain environmental measures within the European Union. Last year, Warsaw took legal action against Brussels in an attempt to nullify EU climate policies, including the 2035 prohibition on new CO2-emitting cars. Zielinska indicated that Warsaw is also open to adopting a target for the EU to achieve a 90% emissions reduction by 2040, with a commitment to addressing its societal impact.

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