Poland's power grid operator PSE has announced plans to invest 64 billion zloty ($16 billion) by 2034 in building new high-voltage power lines. These lines will connect planned renewable and nuclear capacity, marking a significant step in the country's efforts to reduce its reliance on coal.
The draft investment plan, unveiled on Friday, aims to construct 4,850 kilometers (3,014 miles) of 400 kilovolt (kV) transmission lines. This infrastructure will play a crucial role in helping Poland transition to cleaner energy sources and achieve its goal of climate neutrality by 2050.
Poland currently relies heavily on coal for electricity generation. However, the new government, which took office in October, has expressed a strong commitment to transitioning to a lower carbon economy.
The grid upgrades proposed by PSE are essential to support the development of 18 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind farms, 45 GW of solar capacity, and 19 GW of onshore wind farms. Additionally, the plan includes provisions for a nuclear power plant on the Baltic coast and small nuclear reactors.
PSE's ambitious investment plan underscores Poland's determination to embrace renewable energy and reduce its carbon footprint. By modernizing its power grid and integrating renewable energy sources, Poland aims to play a leading role in the global transition to clean energy.