Investments in renewable energies 2026 – Three Legislative Projects Shaping Wind Energy Investments in Poland
Introduction
These include: UD332 (spatial planning and Integrated Investment Plan – ZPI), UC84 (grid connection reform, Sejm print No. 2150) and UC118 (procedural amendments to the Renewable Energy Sources Act).
Spatial planning and ZPI – Project UD332
Project UD332, prepared by the Ministry of Climate and Environment, focuses on the planning stage of wind energy investments.
Key measures include:
- enabling onshore wind projects to be located based on an Integrated Investment Plan (ZPI),
- aligning public consultation rules with general spatial planning regulations,
- allowing parallel planning and environmental procedures.
The minimum setback distance of 700 metres from residential buildings remains unchanged. The project is currently at the governmental stage.
Grid connection – Project UC84 (Sejm Print No. 2150)
Project UC84 reforms the grid connection process for renewable energy installations, aiming to release blocked grid capacity by eliminating so-called “zombie projects”.
The proposal includes:
- shortening the validity of grid connection conditions from 24 to 12 months,
- increasing the connection prepayment to PLN 60/kW,
- introducing additional fees and financial securities,
- linking grid connection rights to specific project milestones.
While the objective is broadly supported, the project remains controversial. Parliamentary work has been temporarily suspended.
Procedural streamlining under the RES Act – Project UC118
Project UC118 introduces amendments relevant to onshore wind energy, including:
- maintaining the 700-metre minimum setback distance,
- harmonising planning and consultation procedures,
- allowing a more flexible approach to distances from power grids, reflecting technological progress,
- clarifying local community participation mechanisms, including virtual prosumer models.
The project aims to shorten investment timelines without altering sensitive distance regulations. It remains at the governmental stage.
Conclusion
Although UD332, UC84 and UC118 address different stages of the investment process, they share a common goal: improving the efficiency of onshore wind energy investments in Poland.
Our experts continuously monitor these legislative developments and advise investors throughout the planning, implementation and management of renewable energy projects.
