Poland’s ‘solidarity’ push for EU energy resilience in face of Russian aggression
In the second article in a series on the Polish economy, we look at how the country is forging closer ties with its neighbours
TL;DR
- Poland is building its first offshore gas terminal near Gdańsk to improve energy security and become an Eastern European energy hub.
- The "Solidarity" terminal will add 6.1 billion cubic metres of LNG regasification capacity annually, with further expansion planned.
- Poland stopped importing Russian gas in 2022 and is diversifying its energy mix, though Middle East conflicts are driving up prices.
- The country faces challenges transitioning away from coal, which still accounts for over half of its electricity generation.
- High energy costs are impacting Poland's manufacturing competitiveness, necessitating a focus on energy cost reduction.
- Poland is investing in nuclear power and other renewables, supported by significant EU funding, but faces criticism over costs and timelines.
- EU membership has been crucial for Poland's economic growth and infrastructure development, including its energy transition.