A new agreement has been signed to boost energy infrastructure development across Pomerania, with significant investments planned to modernize the region's electrical networks. The LIBRA Network Agreement, initiated by the Marshal of Pomerania, aims to improve the energy supply and infrastructure, promoting green energy projects within the province.
The parties to the agreement include Energa, the Pomeranian Voivodeship, the local municipality of Gdańsk, Pomorska Special Economic Zone, Pomeranian Development Fund S.A., and several others such as the Port Management Boards of Gdynia and Gdańsk. This collaboration focuses on the construction and enhancement of high-voltage power lines and other significant energy infrastructure.
Dr. Karolina Lipińska, Vice President of Energa Operator, which oversees network development for approximately one-quarter of the country, emphasized the necessity of strong electrical networks as the backbone of the transition from conventional to green energy sources. “Modern energy primarily concerns the safety and quality of life for residents,” she remarked after the signing ceremony.
The agreement mandates extensive investments, with specific projects valued at around 1.5 billion PLN slated for the years 2025-2026. Altogether, Energa plans to invest up to 40 billion PLN over the next decade to develop energy infrastructure across its operational territory. The significance of enhancing energy security and promoting economic development within Pomerania cannot be overstated, stressed Mieczysław Struk, Marshal of the Pomeranian Voivodeship and the primary advocate of the agreement.
One of the key projects highlighted is the construction of the Gdańsk Błonia-GPZ Maćkowy line, which is expected to provide reliable dual power supplies for six major power supply points located within the southern districts of Gdańsk. The line will also benefit the municipality of Pruszcz Gdański, ensuring continuous energy supply.
With the first nuclear power station being constructed and offshore wind farms underway, the transformation to green energy sources is now underway. Anna Olkowska-Jacyno, the Deputy Voivode of Pomerania, underscored the importance of cooperation among stakeholders and public entities. “Without collaboration, this green transformation will not succeed,” she stated.
Błażej Konkol, Vice President of the Pomorska Special Economic Zone, added, “The energy map of Poland is changing dynamically. The northern regions are becoming increasingly attractive for energy-intensive investments due to the development of renewable energy and the planned construction of transmission infrastructure.” The LIBRA Agreement is seen as a strategic step forward for the economic growth of the region.
The intention behind the LIBRA agreement is to create new energy networks and facilitate investments aimed at promoting green energy solutions. Along with the modernization of the existing grid, approximately 21,000 new transmission lines are anticipated. The necessity for these improvements has been long overdue, according to Piotr Borawski, Deputy Mayor of Gdańsk. Much of the energy infrastructure currently in place dates back to the 1970s and 1980s, and substantial investments are required to modernize this aging system.
To support the modernization, Energa Operator has secured record funding of 7.5 billion PLN from the Polish Reconstruction Plan to upgrade its networks, which translates to over 11,000 kilometers of new electrical lines, 7,000 kilometers of underground cables, and the modernization of nearly 10,000 kilometers of existing lines. This effort aims to connect 9 GW of energy from renewable sources and significantly increase the number of individual energy producers.
This collaborative effort through the LIBRA Agreement also remains open for other municipalities and entities interested in energy infrastructure development, reinforcing the drive toward more resilient energy systems and economic growth within the region.
Overall, the LIBRA Agreement signifies a monumental step toward transforming the Pomeranian region's energy capabilities. Stakeholders express optimism about creating sustainable energy solutions to meet the demands of future generations, promising to put Pomerania at the forefront of Poland's energy transformation.
The focus now remains on executing the outlined plans effectively and ensuring community involvement and environmental responsibility as they move forward with infrastructure improvements and energy solutions.