Polish energy policy 2050 – An instrument to develop a diversified and sustainable electricity generation mix in coal-based energy system

Abstract

Polish economy is still undergoing the transformation process and seeks to converge with the most developed economies in Europe. While many economic reforms have been made, the generating sector was left to its own devices and lack of the investments caused that electricity supply in Poland is ineffective and not secure. The coal is a primary fuel and it constitutes over 80% of the energy mix. Thus, with energy mix restructuration ahead, the ambitious and balanced energy policy is highly required. The article aims to present the 2050 Energy Policy for Poland, which should facilitate the transformation of coal-based electricity generation system towards more sustainable and diversified energy mix. Comprehensive description and review of the current conditions of energy sector in Poland are accompanied with strengths and problems that need to be solved, taking into account European requirements. Additionally, in the paper the authors describe the development process of the Polish Energy Policy as they actively participated in the calculations of optimal energy mix for Poland. The manuscript presents the eMix model (energy mix optimization tool) developed by the authors, that constituted a background for Ministry of Economy to create Energy Policy. Hundreds of simulations scenarios were performed for the Ministry of Economy to provide the clear view of the electricity generation sector and to understand the impacts of all external stimuli to the mix. Assumptions for the model and results of calculations according to the policy scenarios are presented in the paper. Finally, the authors evaluate the final decisions of the policy makers, integrated in the Polish Energy Policy 2050, taking into account the challenges for the Polish power sector.

Public Awareness and Consumer Acceptance of Smart Meters among Polish Social Media Users

“…To overcome this, the Polish energy sector needs to be revamped with increased efficiency of generation and transmission, while fulfilling its obligation to increase the share of RES in the total energy production (which was approx. 8% only in 2014) as well as limiting the CO 2 consumption due to the Climate Policy Agreements [22][23][24][25][26].…”

“…There are several benefits of introducing smart grids and smart meter systems, while updating the current transmission and distribution systems or while constructing new ones [25]. Potential benefits of smart grids involves increased security and reduction in cost of exploitation through optimization of grid management and amplified potential of demand side management/demand response tools (DSM/DR) through the real time price signals and improved communication between the end-users and energy suppliers [25]. Concrete steps are already being taken towards upgrading the energy distribution system and establishing smart grids.…”

Forecasting Methane Emissions from Hard Coal Mines Including the Methane Drainage Process

“…Therefore, it is impossible to either cease or significantly reduce exploitation in the near future, despite the increasing pressure from the European Union and other organizations concerned with environmental protection. Undoubtedly, both the process of coal exploitation and its combustion are not environmentally friendly, yet for the time being, the Polish economy is not prepared for rapid changes in terms of transition to other, more ecological energy sources [20]. That is why, at the current stage of economic development, it seems reasonable to develop more efficient methods of coal exploitation and usage, which would also reduce harmful emissions into the atmosphere.…”

Capacity Market Implementation in Poland: Analysis of a Survey on Consequences for the Electricity Market and for Energy Management

“…The structure of the Polish electricity mix results from the long-term development of coal energy [1,2]. The current situation in the international arena, including to a large extent EU regulations, has prompted the Polish government to reflect on the responsible transformation of the sector towards the diversification of primary energy sources [3], the reduction of CO 2 emission in the manufacturing sector [4,5], and the increase in the share of energy produced by renewable sources [6][7][8][9]. Evidently, these aspects are in line with the principles of sustainable development policy [10].…”