Introduction of the New Law
The Polish cabinet has approved amendments to the Wind Energy Investment Act. The changes reduce the minimum distance between wind turbines and buildings from 700 meters to 500 meters. This revision aims to boost wind power energy development and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.
Pending Approval from the Polish Parliament
Although the cabinet has approved the amendments, the law still requires ratification by the Polish parliament. Once passed, it will allow Poland to add over 10 GW of wind power energy capacity.
The Ongoing Debate Over Turbine Distance
Originally, the regulation required wind turbines to be placed at a distance greater than ten times the height of the turbine hub, meaning 1,000 meters or even 2,000 meters. In March 2023, the Polish president signed the amendment, and the parliament agreed to drop the 10x hub height (10H) rule but kept a minimum distance of 700 meters. While this is not the desired 500 meters, it marks a significant step forward for the c industry.
Challenges with the 10H Rule
The 10H rule was seen as problematic, particularly because many turbines now exceed 150 meters or even 200 meters in height. This regulation made it nearly impossible for many regions to find suitable land for wind turbine installation.
The Proposal for a 500-Meter Distance
The industry proposed a 500-meter minimum distance in the 2022 amendment. Most energy companies designing onshore wind power energy projects in Poland had already used 500 meters as a reference. These companies argue that increasing the minimum distance to 700 meters would significantly limit Poland’s potential for wind power energy generation.
Impact of the New Amendment
The cabinet-approved amendment will reduce the minimum distance to 500 meters. However, stricter rules will apply to projects near national parks (1,500 meters) and protected areas (500 meters). The government expects this change to increase wind power energy capacity by 10 GW by 2030 and potentially raise investments by up to 26%.
Growth of Wind Power Energy in Poland
From 2019 to 2023, Poland’s wind power energy capacity grew by around 900 MW annually. By the end of 2023, the total capacity reached 9.3 GW, making up 15% of the country’s total electricity. By 2024, nearly 30% of Poland’s electricity will come from renewable sources.
Future Projections for Wind Power Energy
According to the Polish Wind Energy Association (PSEW), relaxing wind power energy regulations will help Poland reach 41 GW of onshore capacity by 2040. Since the 2016 distance restrictions were imposed, wind energy investments have declined due to a lack of land. This new law will open up more space for future projects.
Comparison of Available Land for Wind Turbines
The chart below compares areas available for wind turbine construction under the 10H rule from 2016, the 700-meter rule amended in 2023, and the new 500-meter rule.
Achievement of Poland’s Wind Power Energy Goals
In the 2019 wind energy plan, Poland’s Ministry of Climate and Environment estimated wind power energy capacity would reach 9.6 GW by 2030. However, this goal was already met by 2024. The government updated its strategy in September 2024, predicting a total of 19 GW by 2030, opening up significant investment opportunities.
