Coal a priority in draft energy policy

Coal will remain Poland's main energy source, though other sources will also be used, according to a draft of the country's energy policy until 2050, the Polish Press Agency reports. The Ministry of Economy has published the first draft of the policy, launching a consultation process. The draft states that the main goal of the policy is the constant and balanced development of the energy sector, which should contribute to economic growth, provide energy security and satisfy the needs of enterprises and households. A so-called balanced scenario is at the base of the planned strategy. It stipulates for a domination of coal, though set to decline gradually. At the same time, the role of natural gas is seen growing, the share of renewable energy sources is expected to rise to 10 percent in transportation and to 15 percent in the primary energy balance. The share of nuclear energy is seen at 15 percent in the future. The draft also stipulates for investments into new conventional power generation units, in order to use Poland's coal deposits. “Clean coal” technology would be used there, including carbon capture and storage.