Winter weather does not stop renewable energy in Poland. PIE experts about records and challenges
PIE experts note in their latest Economic Weekly that the energy transformation is changing the way large dispatchable power plants, such as gas and coal-fired ones, operate.
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In the period from December 28 last year until January 4, 2026, net generation from lignite-fired power plants rarely exceeded 3 GW, which was the result of high windiness, intensive operation of CHP plants and a decline in energy demand.
Winter weather and renewable energy opportunities
According to PIE, snow and frost do not pose a significant problem for wind energy.
“Modern wind turbines installed in Poland are equipped with technologies that prevent ice from accumulating or enable its defrosting, which allows them to operate even at temperatures reaching -20 or -30 degrees C,” experts emphasize. As a result, during the holiday season, the daily share of renewable energy sources in electricity production reached record values, the highest since October 2025.
Solar energy also copes with winter challenges. As experts noted, snow cover is not the main limitation because the photovoltaic panels are mounted at an angle, which makes it easier for the snow to slide off, and the sun's rays additionally melt it. An example is January 4 and 6 this year, when at noon the solar energy production capacity reached 4.6 GW.
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On the other hand, short days and cloud cover remain a problem in the winter months, limiting the efficiency of photovoltaic systems. Experts indicate that the situation improves in the second part of the heating season, from February to April.
Winter challenges for the energy system
Snowfall may be beneficial for hydropower, although its role in Poland is limited.
“In the Nordic and Alpine countries, snow cover is a valuable water reservoir that supports power systems in spring and summer.” – PIE experts note.
However, heavy snowfall in Poland can lead to failures of distribution networks, as was the case in early January in Warmia and Mazury, where storms and snow-covered trees damaged local power lines.
An even greater challenge for the energy system is the so-called dark flauta. On January 6 this year, with decreasing wind strength and low temperatures, the share of renewable energy sources in energy production dropped to 14%.
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Experts point out that in such conditions, the burden of maintaining system stability falls on emission power plants, such as coal and gas, and in the future also nuclear.
“During a deep dark market, the share of renewable energy may drop to several percentage points,” they admit.
Electrification and energy efficiency
PIE experts emphasize that with the development of electrification of heating and transport, the importance of stable electricity supplies increases. Heat pumps, which are one of the most ecological heat sources, require a properly prepared energy system, including peak power plants and secured networks.. Homes can reduce their dependence on the grid thanks to solutions such as thermal insulation, heat storage, photovoltaic panels and battery energy storage.
In emergency situations, especially in isolated homes, backup energy sources such as wood fireplaces or generators can be helpful. Experts also point out the need to prepare the gas system for peak demand, which in the future may be even twice as high as previous records.
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“It is the gas sources that will provide the final security for both the power system and municipal heating systems and home heating” – PIE experts sum up.
