Determinants of Decarbonisation in the Transformation of the Energy Sector: The Case of Poland

Magdalena Wójcik-Jurkiewicz,Grzegorz Kinelski,Marzena Czarnecka,Beata Sadowska,Katarzyna Bilińska-Reformat

doi:10.3390/en14051217

Magdalena Wójcik-Jurkiewicz, Grzegorz Kinelski + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/en14051217

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Abstract

This paper aims to identify the determinants of the decarbonisation processes in Poland within the scope of energy transformation. The purpose of the study is to identify how the public perceives decarbonisation determinants in order to develop a sustainable energy strategy for Poland. The transition of the energy market to low-carbon technology is a policy challenge. Governments must implement policies that are environmentally friendly, cost-effective, but, most of all, socially acceptable. Social acceptance risk plays a significant role in Poland, influencing the decarbonisation process. In Poland’s case, the coal share is decreasing, but it is still the most important fuel for electricity production. This process of decarbonisation is a fundamental influence on the transformation of the energy sector in Poland. The social perception of solutions that can be applied was examined. The Polish natural environment is poisoned. Poles suffer from diseases related to the burning of coal for energy production. Societal awareness, how people perceive the government’s actions, and what they expect in this regard is crucial.

Highlights

Poland is using coal for much of its energy mix
Social acceptance risk plays a significant role in Poland, influencing the decarbonisation process
This study shows the directions enabling the diffusion of knowledge regarding decarbonisation to develop a sustainable energy strategy for Poland

Summary

Introduction

Poland is using coal for much of its energy mix. Poland is a significant producer of coal. The decarbonisation of the energy sector is closely linked to the linear reduction of the coal sector This is connected to the reduction of employment in the Polish coal mining industry. Our case study for Poland shows that in the past, about fifty per cent of all mining workers, who have left their job, have not moved to other industries and remained unemployed. This phenomenon should be explained, inter alia, by the fact that the level of education of miners is lower than the average on the labour market. This can be explained by lower wages in sectors other than the mining sector

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