The panel of the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) 2024 entitled “Transforming Europe's lignite regions from emitters to renewable energy suppliers” brought together a group of experts. The debate, moderated by Ewa Krukowska of Bloomberg News, was preceded by the introduction of Arkadiusz Pluciński, Deputy Permanent Representative of Poland to the EU, who stressed Poland's commitment to the energy transition.
Then, Dr. Joanna Maćkowiak-Pandera from the Energy Forum and Lidia Wojtal from Agora Energiewende in their speeches stressed the importance of a holistic approach to this transformation. Dr Maćkowiak-Pandera shared her insights on the transformation challenges in Poland, pointing out the significant reduction of lignite consumption in recent years. Ms Wojtal drew attention to the socio-economic dimension of the transition, stressing that it should be seen as an opportunity rather than a burden for regions dependent on fossil fuels.
Dr. Aleksandra Gawlikowska-Fyk from Forum Energii discussed Poland's efforts in the field of energy transition and the importance of preparing the regions where lignite is mined for the inevitable withdrawal from this exploitation. She stressed the need for comprehensive planning and investment in renewable energy sources, noting Poland's progress in reducing lignite production by 27% last year. It also highlighted the importance of leveraging existing infrastructure and ensuring job creation in renewable sectors to replace lost lignite jobs.
Daniel Baliński from ZE PAK S.A. shared his insights on transformation management in Poland, stressing the importance of early involvement of trade unions and the role of supportive policies. He also stressed the need to create new jobs in renewable sectors.
Nga Ngo Thuy of Agora Energiewende presented examples from Germany where former coal regions have been successfully transformed into renewable energy hubs and innovation hubs: the Lusatian Lake District, created by flooding former lignite mines, or Brainergy Park, where energy companies and scientists collaborate on new technologies.
Julian Popov of the European Climate Foundation (ECF) highlighted the potential of lignite regions to boost Europe's competitiveness by leveraging existing infrastructure such as strong network connections and engineering expertise. He stressed the importance of creating industrial clusters focused on new technologies such as energy storage and hydrogen production.
During the Q&A session, Marcel Bartczak, a political analyst in the BSP team, asked the panelists whether there is a business case and a plan for Poland to mitigate the gradual shift away from coal-based energy, an example of which is the planned shutdown of the Bełchatów power plant in 2036, especially in the face of the delayed start of nuclear power. In response, experts agreed that it is crucial to develop clear transformation plans at all levels, from local governments to national and EU levels, as well as investing in the expansion of power grid capacity, while using existing lignite energy production areas as a space for photovoltaic and onshore wind installations.
The discussion also focused on international cooperation and participants highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge and experience around the world in order to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy. Emphasis was placed on the need for supportive policies, private investment and a coordinated approach to transition.
Main points of discussion:
- Holistic approach: Integration of social, economic and environmental aspects.
- Regional cooperation: Necessary cooperation between local and national authorities.
- Use of infrastructure: Use of existing networks and resources for renewable energy.
- Potential of renewable energy: Significant opportunities for solar and wind energy.
- Industrial transformation: Attracting new industries to replace lignite.
- Creation of jobs: Providing new employment opportunities in the renewable energy sectors.
- Sharing knowledge: Learning from successful transformations in other regions.
- Market solutions: Encouraging private investment in renewable energy projects.
- Political support: The need for a supportive legal and regulatory framework.
- International cooperation: Sharing experiences and strategies around the world.
