Poland's Offshore Wind Ambitions Promise Jobs and Energy Security
Poland is poised to harness the potential of offshore wind, a move that could stimulate job creation and bolster energy security. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki backs this shift towards renewable energy, with the government aligning its policies with EU targets.
Analyst Søren Lassen from MAKE offshore and a 2016 McKinsey report suggest that offshore wind could generate significant jobs in Poland. The Polish Wind Energy Association (PWEA) estimates that local companies could supply up to 50% of the components needed for these projects.
Morawiecki's support is evident in Poland's initial steps to modernize its grid infrastructure and introduce flexibility into its energy system. The government is also promoting offshore wind farms in the Baltic, with projects like the Baltic Power offshore wind park. This venture, a joint effort between Orlen and Northland Power, plans to install 76 turbines, powering around 1.5 million households and serving NATO surveillance purposes.
The offshore wind market in Poland and other northern and eastern European regions is expected to exceed 4 GW of installed capacity by 2027, according to Lassen. This growth is driven by falling costs, making offshore wind increasingly price-competitive with coal. Companies like Statoil and Polenergia have already signed agreements to collaborate on offshore wind farm construction, with a combined capacity of 1.2 GW.
Poland's energy and electricity markets are transforming, with offshore wind emerging as a key player. This shift promises job creation, energy security, and clean growth, all while aligning with EU renewable energy targets. The government's support and industry collaborations are paving the way for a bright future in offshore wind.
