Biznes Fakty
Renewable energy in the new ministry? Energy Minister Miłosz Motyka: We have the competence to do so.
According to Energy Minister Miłosz Motyka, Poland might be the only nation in Europe without renewable energy sources managed by the Ministry of Energy, as stated in his interview with „Dziennik Gazeta Prawna.” He highlighted his intention to prioritize the development of small modular reactors (SMRs) and expressed optimism regarding the president’s endorsement of the wind farm legislation.
During the conversation with DGP journalists, Minister Motyka was asked if he anticipated taking control of the renewable energy sector and whether he foresaw any conflicts with the Ministry of Climate and Environment regarding the oversight of renewable energy resources.
„I am confident in our substantive expertise to manage this. (…) If any uncertainties emerge, we will address them,” Motyka responded. „If it proves impossible to amend the Act on Divisions, we will operate within the existing legal framework,” he added.
The wind farm legislation is nearing completion
Motyka was also inquired if he had discussed the so-called wind farm law with the president-elect.
„The president will soon receive a commendable bill for review. Its provisions tackle all the concerns raised by the political faction represented by Mr. Nawrocki – from distance-related issues, potential decreases in land value adjacent to the wind farm, to the stabilization of energy prices. (…) If he examines these provisions from a substantive standpoint, rather than through an ideological or political lens, I believe he will endorse it,” the minister declared.
„Small atom” takes precedence
The minister additionally revealed that preparations for the establishment of Poland’s inaugural nuclear power plant are underway. „We have a chance to secure EC approval for state aid more swiftly than any recent EU nuclear endeavors,” he affirmed.
He stressed that crucial decisions regarding the second power plant are still „on the horizon.” „The current timeline outlined in the Polish Nuclear Power Programme (PPEJ), which is also under revision, anticipates 2028–2029 as the period for making a decision, issuing an environmental ruling, and selecting the specific site for the project,” Motyka reminded.
He indicated that the PPEJ is currently undergoing updates. „We are aware of the options being explored. We are also engaged in discussions about the ownership structure of a potential second power plant,” the minister noted.
„DGP” observed that it had previously been evident that the government intended to focus on large-scale technologies (large nuclear power plants – ed.). It inquired whether the minister aimed to shift this emphasis towards „small atoms,” referring to the so-called small modular reactors (SMRs).
„I would like to. Particularly in the context of analyzing and harnessing the potential of SMRs for decarbonizing the heating sector,” Motyka replied.
What is the status of energy vouchers?
The Minister was also questioned about the progress on a voucher designed to safeguard vulnerable households from heat price hikes due to their „unfreezing.”
„We are currently evaluating the extent of the benefit in light of existing budgetary limitations,” he stated. He added that formulating a mechanism is a matter of days. „However, we are still awaiting decisions from the Ministry of Finance and Economy. The budgetary challenge is substantial, but I will strive to find a solution that will shield citizens from rising prices,” Motyka told DGP.
