Poland is intensifying its focus on developing offshore wind farms in the Baltic Sea as part of its strategy to enhance energy security and independence. The government is preparing to allocate new areas for these projects and draft measures to safeguard critical energy infrastructure, reflecting a broader recognition of the geopolitical and strategic importance of renewable energy in the region.
Key developments
- Expansion of offshore wind zones
• Deputy Infrastructure Minister Arkadiusz Marchewka announced that maritime offices are completing analyses to designate new areas for offshore wind development.
• Offshore wind energy is being prioritized as a “reason of state,” emphasizing its strategic role in Poland’s energy policy.
2. Energy security and legislation
• The government is formulating legislation to enhance security around offshore installations, including allowing private security firms to patrol these facilities.
• Zbigniew Muszynski of the Government Centre for Security highlighted the importance of mitigating hybrid threats, citing recent geopolitical tensions and the war in Ukraine.
3. Current and future capacity
• Projects led by major investors like PGE, Orlen, Equinor, and Ørsted aim to achieve 6 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030.
• Auctions for the second phase of development are scheduled for 2025, with Poland’s offshore wind potential estimated at 33 GW.
4. Adjustments to pricing policies
• In response to investor concerns about economic feasibility, Poland increased the price offered for wind power from Baltic projects for 2024.
• Differentiated pricing based on project distance from the shore is also under consideration to balance costs and development incentives.
Context and challenges
Poland’s offshore wind ambitions are contrasted with Sweden’s recent rejection of similar projects in the Baltic due to defense concerns. However, Poland appears committed to balancing energy transition goals with national security, leveraging its geographic potential in the Baltic while preparing for potential hybrid threats.
This strategic push aligns with broader European efforts to transition to renewable energy, reduce reliance on Russian energy imports, and fortify critical infrastructure against emerging threats.