Comments to the draft Strategy for the Transformation of the Polish Heating Sector by 2040

CATF welcomes the opportunity to comment on the draft Heating Strategy. This strategy is one of the steps towards decarbonisation of Poland’s heating sector. What’s next? A technology optionality approach is essential for Poland’s heating transition. The Strategy should be backed by a clear roadmap that helps municipalities and district heating companies assess the best mix of clean heat options for their local conditions.

• Nuclear heat should be presented as a viable option for the competitive decarbonisation of district heating. A clear enabling framework and plan are needed to assess the role of nuclear heat in local heating systems. 
• The Heating Strategy should be aligned with Polish Nuclear Power Programme, as nuclear heat projects would depend on decisions regulated outside the heating sector. 
• Geothermal energy should be strengthened through a de-risking and innovation framework. It should include better data access, and support for next-generation geothermal technologies. 
• Renewable hydrogen should not be positioned as a decarbonisation solution for district heating. It should be prioritised for no-regrets sectors that have no efficient alternatives. 
• The Heating Strategy must recognise the role of energy communities and other forms of community ownership  in the heat transition. District heating is local and depends on municipal planning, local resources, and social acceptance.  

Find out more about the consultation and information about the strategy here.

Read our full comments on the strategy in English or Polish below.