Energa-Operator, a subsidiary of Orlen Group, has secured 7.5bn zlotys ($1.8bn) to modernise and digitalise the power grid in northern and central Poland. The initiative, the largest in the company’s history, aims to enhance energy security, expand renewable energy integration, and reduce consumer costs.

The programme involves the construction and upgrade of 21,000km of power lines, facilitating the connection of 9GW of renewable energy and energy storage facilities to stabilise electricity supply. Additionally, it will integrate 200,000 new prosumers and 350,000 new electricity consumers into the grid.

ORLEN President of the Management Board Ireneusz Fąfara emphasised the project’s role in strengthening Poland’s energy security and supporting economic development, particularly in northern Poland, where major renewable projects are concentrated.

The investment, valued at 40bn zlotys ($10bn) through 2035, will include 11,000km of new power lines, 7,000km of cable lines, and modernisation of 10,000km of existing lines. Plans also include 1,600 public EV charging stations and 1,000 advanced transformers to improve grid efficiency.

Currently, 9.6GW of renewable energy is connected to Energa-Operator’s network, representing one-third of Poland’s renewable capacity. This will expand to 19GW, with prosumer numbers increasing from 300,000 to 500,000.

The project is funded through a low-interest loan from BGK, with additional support from the European Investment Bank. It is expected to improve reliability for 3.5 million customers, boost investment in economic zones, and facilitate the expansion of electric mobility and electricity-based heating across Poland.

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