19:30 3 August 2026
Heat and lack of water hitting Polish energy sector
High temperatures and low water levels have forced some conventional power plants in Poland to reduce output. Enea confirmed that selected units at the Połaniec power plant are operating at limited capacity, describing the move as an operational response to current hydrological conditions.
Polish grid operator PSE said the electricity system remains stable and expects sufficient reserve capacity in the coming days, although it has not ruled out declaring a capacity market alert if needed.
The heatwave is also affecting energy systems elsewhere in Europe. High temperatures can overheat grids and transformers, while low river levels restrict water-cooled power plants. Nuclear facilities in France and Hungary have faced similar problems.
Solar power is helping meet higher daytime demand from air conditioning, but evening demand remains a concern as solar generation falls while cooling systems continue operating. This may require coal- and gas-fired plants to increase output.
Energy Minister Miłosz Motyka said there is no current threat to Poland’s power system, although localized grid overloads remain possible. He added that Poland may again export electricity to neighboring countries facing more severe shortages.
(wnp.pl)
