The transformation of the Polish energy sector is a necessity stemming from both established climate goals and the need to ensure the country’s energy security. Faced with the ongoing depletion of domestic coal-fired power plants (CFPPs) (many units are over 50 years old) and increasingly stringent environmental regulations, a gradual shift away from fossil fuels in favour of energy sources with lower emissions is essential. At the same time, the transformation must be implemented in a way that ensures the stability of the National Power System (KSE), guaranteeing the security of energy supply, and an acceptable overall economic cost. This requires replacing coal-fired power in a coordinated manner, preferably while adhering to the requirements of a ‘Just Transition’ for regions whose health is often closely linked to locally developed fuel and energy industries. In practice, this means increasing the role of nuclear energy, because without investment in nuclear power plants, achieving climate goals while maintaining long-term economic growth may prove impossible.
The share of nuclear energy should be increased by replacing the installed capacity of coal-fired power plants with new nuclear units, preferably located at their current locations or in close proximity to decommissioned coal-fired power plants. This approach simultaneously allows for both achieving climate goals and maintaining the continued good health of local economies. Utilising the electricity transmission infrastructure and elements of the local infrastructure offers an opportunity to reduce the costs of building nuclear power plants. Investments of this nature are consistent with the Coal-to-Nuclear (C2N) transition concept, which is growing in popularity around the world, mainly in regions that owe their economic development to the important role of coal in the energy sector, which are now facing the need to decarbonise their economies.
To illustrate the practical aspects of the Coal-to-Nuclear transformation, the DEsire project conducted preliminary feasibility studies. These studies covered three potential investments, two of which were brownfield and one of which was direct. The studies covered Kozienice Power Plant, Dolna Odra Power Plant, and one of the 900 MW units operating at Opole Power Plant. The aim of these analyses was to examine how investment processes could proceed with realistic site conditions, and what technical and economic outcomes they could achieve. Site development concepts and investment schedules were developed, taking into account all key stages, from the analysis phase, through obtaining permits, to the construction and commissioning of new nuclear systems.
The studies have been translated into English and Chinese and are now available to read exclusively on our website:
📄 KM4.2 Opole_Appendix 1 – English.pdf
📄 KM4.2 Opole_Appendix 2 – English.pdf
📄 KM4.2 Opole_Appendix 3 – English.pdf
Non-binding, unofficial translation prepared by the Repower Initiative