The Sejm adopted an amendment to the Renewable Energy Sources Act. The new regulations are to increase the share of renewable energy sources in domestic consumption and adapt the Polish law to EU regulations. The wind energy industry is particularly happy with increased ambitions related to offshore wind farm development. The draft, prepared by Ministry of Climate and Environment, has been unanimously adopted, with no objections to the proposed amendments. If the Senate does not introduce any further amendments to the Act, it will await the President’s signature.
Adoption of the Act amending the Renewable Energy Sources Act by the Sejm on 7 July is a good message for the wind energy industry. The draft, developed by Ministry of Climate and Environment, includes provisions aimed at further increase of the share of renewable sources in domestic electricity consumption. It is also to adapt the Polish law to European Union regulations on promotion of the use of renewable energy sources. The Act implements Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (REDII) and includes a number of elements fostering further development of wind energy in Poland.
The Government promotes offshore wind farms
For offshore wind industry, the key element of the draft act is the increased ambitions for offshore development. The decision increasing the allowable number of offshore wind farms that could be built under the support scheme provided for in the regulations from 10.9 GW to 17.9 GW is a step in a good direction that will not only allow for delivering higher volumes of clean and inexpensive electricity, but primarily foster the development of the offshore industry in Poland. The key is to have a long-term, ambitious perspective for the development of the offshore sector. The proposed solutions do create such a vision.
Guarantees of origin
An important change in the draft act is enabling the President of the ERO to join the international Association of Issuing Bodies (AiB), an association of authorities issuing guarantees of origin. This will enable the synchronisation of the national register with the AiB and international trade in Polish guarantees of origin.
Hybrid installations
Amendment to the definition of a hybrid installation should contribute to more efficient use of existing resources. The solution will be even more important when regulations enabling cable pooling will be implemented, which is still awaited by the wind energy sector.
The amendment is now scheduled for Senate works. If the Senate implements amendments, they will be subject to the Sejm voting. Next, the new law will be submitted to the President for signing.