The lengthy process of obtaining permits for renewable energy investments in Poland significantly slows down the addition of new capacity to the grid. However, initiatives are emerging aimed at streamlining these procedures. One such idea is the introduction of areas for accelerated renewable energy development – an EU tool proposed in the RED III Directive.

The aim of the project is to support the implementation of regulations that accelerate the development of renewable energy sources in Poland, whilst maintaining high environmental standards and improving the quality of the process for issuing permits for energy investments. We are striving to systematically streamline and standardise environmental procedures for renewable energy sources across the country, which will shorten the investment process and enable the faster development of new installations. 

The Reform Institute monitors the implementation of the areas of accelerated renewable energy development (OPRO) and other EU and national reforms in the field of environmental procedures. Our areas of interest include, amongst others, the revision of the RED Directive as part of the Grids Package and the so-called environmental omnibus bill. We monitor their transposition into Polish law. We prepare recommendations and organise expert meetings with public administration bodies, the regulator and grid operators to develop joint solutions. We highlight the need for systemic improvements to procedures not only for renewable energy sources, but also for energy storage facilities and electricity grids. 

The project provides analyses, recommendations and expert commentary on the process of obtaining planning permission for renewable energy sources and energy infrastructure in Poland. These efforts result in proposals for specific improvements to administrative procedures. By combining analysis with facilitating dialogue on the permitting process, we ensure that the national legal framework responds to the real needs of the market and is based on reliable data. 

These activities enhance the quality of the legislative process, promoting more predictable rules for the implementation of energy projects. They help to reconcile objectives relating to environmental protection, grid development and building public acceptance of the energy transition.