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Prime Minister on possible presidential veto: „It would be an incredible scandal”
Donald Tusk on energy: we are discussing a vast amount of moneyTVN24
I cannot fathom that President Andrzej Duda would choose to veto legislation that maintains energy prices at their current levels for the upcoming months, stated Prime Minister Donald Tusk during a press briefing on Monday.
– I seldom use such terms, but this would be an extraordinary scandal. I hope this serves as a wake-up call for people – the head of government stressed.
The Prime Minister also responded to the President’s critique of wind energy. „I recognize that wind turbines may not be the most aesthetically pleasing feature of the landscape, yet they continue to be one of the most economical energy sources available,” he remarked.
As the Prime Minister pointed out, Poland requires solutions that will ensure energy supply in the coming months and years, not over decades. – Electricity from a nuclear facility will not be available tomorrow or next month. This is a long-term investment. Currently, we are searching for affordable energy sources that can provide electricity in the next several months, not decades down the line – added Tusk.
Wind farm legislation with an amendment concerning electricity prices
Last Wednesday, the Sejm approved an amendment to the so-called Windmill Act, which, among other changes, reduces the minimum distance for wind turbines from buildings to 500 m.
The amendment eases regulations surrounding the establishment of wind farms, including the introduction of a so-called participation fund for residents living near future wind farms.
During the second reading in the Sejm, the bill was modified to include the Poland 2050 amendment, which extends the freeze on electricity prices for households through the fourth quarter of 2025. Under the existing regulations, the frozen price of PLN 500 per MWh net is effective until September 30. The bill still requires consideration from the Senate.
The president’s remarks
President Andrzej Duda, when questioned about the bill last Wednesday, stated that the inclusion of provisions to freeze prices was an attempt to compel him to endorse it. – I recognize that, regrettably, the Prime Minister and his associates, by inserting such an amendment intended to shield Poles from energy price hikes, are merely trying to pressure me into approving this bill, cornering me, but he must keep in mind that I am nearing the end of my second term – remarked President Duda.
He also mentioned that he does not personally favor windmills, as „the landscape holds greater importance for him than having windmills scattered everywhere,” but he supports other forms of renewable energy.
