Poland’s renewable energy surpasses coal for first time

Poland's renewable energy surpasses coal for first time

In June 2025, Poland experienced a significant shift in its energy generation as renewable sources supplied more electricity than coal for the first time. Estimates from Forum Energii indicate that renewables accounted for 44.1% of the country’s electricity generation, edging out coal, which provided 43.7%. Natural gas made up the remaining share of electricity production.

This development marks a pivotal moment in Poland’s efforts to reduce its dependence on coal, which has historically been the backbone of its energy sector. As the European Union’s most coal-reliant nation, Poland’s transition to renewable energy is critical for meeting EU climate targets.

Tobiasz Adamczewski, vice-president of Forum Energii, described this transition as a major change that could trigger a broader shift in energy policy and consumption patterns. The second quarter of 2025 also saw a decline in coal’s share of electricity, dropping from 56.4% a year earlier to 46.2%.

Marek Józefiak from Greenpeace Polska acknowledged this achievement as a breakthrough. However, he pointed out that inefficiencies in the grid infrastructure are leading to wasted renewable energy. He remarked, “We’re on the right path, but progress is slowed by political focus on coal unions instead of systemic reform.”

The increase in renewable energy production aligns with global trends where many countries are investing in cleaner energy sources to combat climate change. Poland’s recent figures reflect a growing commitment to sustainability amid ongoing challenges in transitioning from fossil fuels.