Poland’s and Europe’s energy security and new sources development were the
main topics of discussion during the 14. National Energy Summit OSE, that
took place on May 25 th and 26 th in Gdańsk.

_{photo: Gdańsk-Gdynia-Sopot Metropolitan Area}

Europe’s energy security, off-shore and on-shore, transformation process, pure
energy, local content and the Pomeranian energy mix were just some topics of
discussion panels, in which entrepreneurs, scientists and politicians took part.

“The discussion about the energy sector is gaining a broader meaning – said Marshal
of the Pomeranian Voivodship Mieczysław Struk during the first day of the summit -
Pomerania is a unique place. We are one of the most important hubs of the country:
logistical, energy and digital”

Nuclear renaissance
During the Summit, the topic of the nuclear power plant being built in Choczewo
resonated strongly. Panelists emphasized the importance of this project, which has
gained momentum following the European Commission`s positive notification
decision. Experts had no doubt that the scale of this investment is historic. The power
plant is expected to cover approximately 15 percent of Poland`s current electricity
demand, which will significantly contribute to the country`s energy security.

The implementation of this investment comes with many challenges. Foreign guests
attending the summit eagerly shared their experiences in this matter. A good example
of success in this field is Finland, one of the European leaders in the use of nuclear
energy.

- In hindsight probably the biggest lessons we learned were from the supply
chains related to a project of this magnitude. Of course, OL3 was pretty much
the first project prior to the wider nuclear renaissance in Europe and hence
there simply wasn’t enough recent experience available. Now there is and
Poland should use that for a smoother project. – said Antti Rahikka, Trade
Councillor at the Embassy

Offshore Wind Drives Transformation
Another important topic discussed during the OSE was the investment in offshore
wind farms. Several dozen kilometres out to sea, off the coast of Łeba, the
construction of 107 wind turbines with a capacity of 1.5 GW is already underway. This
strategic project, carried out by the PGE Group and the Danish company Ørsted, will
become another pillar of the region`s energy security. In parallel, onshore
infrastructure connected to the farms is being built, which will enable the efficient
integration of the energy produced at sea directly into the national grid.

_{photo: Gdańsk-Gdynia-Sopot Metropolitan Area}

However, the comprehensive nature of this investment is evidenced by more than just the generation of new, zero-emission electricity. During its implementation, the "local content" concept was applied, focusing on the maximum involvement of Polish enterprises in the infrastructure and energy works.

"Transformation is not solely a climate issue, but also an economic responsibility," said the Marshal of the Pomeranian Voivodeship, Mieczysław Struk.

For the region
Foreign guests at OSE also appreciated the region’s development. 

“It was interesting to discuss how investments in Pomerania are becoming increasingly significant for Poland’s energy landscape.” - noted Beata Virsumirska, Energy Attache of the Lithuanian Embassy in Poland - “Through major energy infrastructure developments and strategic projects, the region is helping to enhance Poland’s energy security, increase system resilience, diversify energy sources, and support the country’s long-term energy transition ambitions.”

Pomerania is a region with investment potential; at the same time, all activities undertaken in the voivodeship share one common denominator, aptly summarized by Marshal Struk when he stated that "the most important infrastructure is people." Although the region already possesses highly specialized personnel, the scale of the undertaking requires further upskilling of local talents and bringing in professionals from outside the region. Collaboration between Pomeranian universities and businesses will contribute to the development of human capital, tailored to the challenges associated with investments of this caliber. In turn, specialists from outside Pomerania will provide valuable experience and the necessary know-how.

"The ongoing and planned investments in energy development represent the greatest development opportunity for our region, which must be utilized wisely. One of the tools for this could be a well-functioning Metropolis where decisions are made collaboratively for the common good," said Grzegorz Walczukiewicz, Climate Coordinator at OMGGS.

_{photo: Gdańsk-Gdynia-Sopot Metropolitan Area}

The 14th edition of the National Energy Summit took place at a crucial moment—amidst an uncertain geopolitical situation and increasingly stringent European Union standards and regulations. The continuous search for diversified energy sources has the potential to secure the energy future of the country and the region, as evidenced by expert statements and, above all, real actions.