Poland is bracing for extreme heat, with temperatures potentially exceeding 40°C in major cities from Thursday to Saturday. While solar panels are expected to help meet record power demand, their efficiency actually drops in high temperatures. Experts point out that the worst-case energy crisis of 2015 is unlikely to repeat, thanks to the widespread presence of photovoltaics.
The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) warns of a heatwave intensifying from Wednesday, reaching a peak on Sunday when almost the entire country will see temperatures above 30°C. In the most affected areas, thermometers may show over 43°C. Such extreme heat puts the energy system under strain, but the situation in 2026 differs significantly from the 2015 crisis, when a lack of cooling water forced power plants to reduce output and led to restrictions for industrial users.
How heat affects solar panel performance
Contrary to intuition, strong sunlight and high heat do not boost solar generation. Photovoltaic panels lose efficiency as temperatures rise. Bartłomiej Derski from WysokieNapiecie.pl explains: „Photovoltaics often do not peak in midsummer but in late spring and early autumn. The highest productivity is seen in the Alps, where it is cool and sunny.” He adds that despite the efficiency drop, panels still produce significant energy during daylight hours, stabilizing the system when demand is highest.
Why 2015 crisis won’t repeat
Grzegorz Onichimowski, head of Polish power grid operator PSE, is confident that history will not repeat itself. „A repeat of 2015 is not a threat thanks to the widespread presence of photovoltaics, which generate large amounts of energy at least until dusk. The challenge remains the flexibility of coal-fired units in the late afternoon and evening, when solar generation fades. Here the situation may be tight, but we do not expect any major shock,” he said.
Although the heatwave tests the grid, the combination of a large solar fleet and better-prepared conventional plants gives operators breathing room. The key risk period remains the evening peak, when solar output drops sharply and coal units must ramp up quickly. However, with proper forecasting and coordination, PSE believes Poland can avoid blackouts or demand restrictions.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. Shutterstock
