Europe’s Cold Snap Tests Thousands of New Heat Pumps in Poland

UPDATE: An Arctic cold snap is gripping Europe, with temperatures in Warsaw expected to plunge to -5C (23F) later this week, putting thousands of new heat pumps to the test in Polish homes. This sudden drop, nearly 4C below the average for this time of year, raises urgent questions about the effectiveness of renewable heating solutions as families brace for the cold.

Residents like Jacek Owczarek, a 58-year-old from central-west Poland, are feeling the strain. After switching from coal to solar panels and planning to add a heat pump, he is now one of many relying on these systems during the harsh weather. “I produce twice as much electricity as I use,” Owczarek stated, highlighting the shift toward cleaner energy solutions amid soaring fossil fuel costs following the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Poland remains one of Europe’s most coal-dependent nations, yet the government is pushing for change. Recent data shows that over 40% of the country’s power comes from renewables, with solar and wind capacity increasing almost nine-fold in the last decade. The current climate meeting, COP30, is focusing on strategies to enhance this growth globally.

The Polish government is heavily investing in the transition, with a $27 billion “clean air” program aimed at replacing outdated coal-fired heating systems. In just seven years, Poles have installed over 13 gigawatts of photovoltaic panels, significantly reducing electricity bills and pushing for a cleaner energy future.

However, challenges remain. As of 2024, Poland had approximately 745,000 installed heat pumps, far behind France’s leading total of 6.6 million. Demand for these systems surged post-invasion of Ukraine, yet recent sales have dropped, leaving Poland struggling to meet its ambitious targets of phasing out coal furnaces by the mid-2030s.

Pawel Lachman, head of the Polish Organization of Heat Pump Development, warns that without enhanced government support and better electricity tariffs, Poland will fall short of its climate goals. “The speed at which Poland has transformed is absolutely astonishing,” said former Polish climate minister Michal Kurtyka. “But patience is essential as we strive to meet our targets.”

As the cold snap continues, the effectiveness and reliability of these new heating systems are under intense scrutiny. Homeowners across Poland are anxiously awaiting results, highlighting the immediate human impact of this energy transition. With increasing urgency for clean energy solutions, the outcome of this week’s test could shape future policies and investments in renewable technology.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as families adapt to these new systems amidst the harsh weather. As the situation develops, experts and homeowners alike are calling for immediate action to ensure that Poland’s energy transition remains on track.