Poland's renewable power surpasses coal for the first time

For the first time in its history, Poland has generated more electricity from renewable sources than from coal. 

In July, wind and solar power provided over 46 percent of the country's electricity, compared to coal's 42 percent. It marks a huge turning point in one of Europe's most coal-dependent nations.

The milestone is especially visible along Poland's Baltic coast, where booming tourism has fueled rising energy consumption. In Gdańsk, streets are crowded with summer visitors, restaurants and cafes are bustling, and hotels are running at near-full capacity. All of this adds pressure to the country's power grid.

Some businesses have responded by turning directly to renewable energy. In nearby Rumia, the Falko Hotel has outfitted its rooftop with solar panels to meet soaring electricity demands. 

"We have 30 rooms. Electricity consumption is very high because we use electricity 24/7 for air conditioning, lighting, a spa, and kitchen appliances," said hotel manager Justyna Falkowska Księgowa. "It is also very important that despite the constantly rising energy prices, we're seeing a significant decrease on our electricity bills."

Much of the technology behind Poland's solar boom comes from China. 

Piotr Grabowski, director of the Fundacja Energii Alternatywnej, a foundation installing solar systems across the region, said: "All these are Chinese brands. Besides, in our market, practically, other than Chinese, there are a few Korean brands, but there are practically no European brands at all. 

"Practically all of the components, except for the DC cables, come from China. All the advanced technology comes from China."

Until recently, wind power was the dominant renewable source in Poland, supplying just over 14 percent of electricity. But rapid investment in solar has enabled it to catch up, and together they produced nearly a quarter of Poland's power last year.

The shift is already reshaping Poland's energy system. Coal, once responsible for more than two-thirds of the nation's electricity, is in steady decline. As renewables rise, greenhouse gas emissions are falling, aligning Poland more closely with the EU's long-term climate goals.

For many businesses, the change is about more than lower bills. Tourists and customers increasingly expect sustainable practices, making renewable power part of a broader strategy to attract visitors and stay competitive.

With affordable Chinese technology driving the transition, Poland's energy future is becoming not only greener but also more globally interconnected.