The Polish Ministry of Climate and Environment has unveiled the first package of changes to the 'Clean Air’ (Czyste Powietrze) program, set to take effect this July. The modifications are designed to simplify access to grants, increase subsidy amounts, and extend deadlines for completing investments, addressing criticisms that emerged after the March 2025 reform.
The new rules target several bottlenecks that had frustrated homeowners and the construction industry. Among the most significant changes is the relaxation of the three-year ownership requirement. Previously, applicants had to own or co-own a property for at least three years to qualify. The new rules will reduce that period to one year for certain cases, notably for those who purchase at least a 50% share through sale or inheritance.
Ministerstwo Klimatu i Środowiska (MKiŚ) acknowledged that the original requirement, intended to prevent abuse, also hit young families buying older homes for renovation. – We have listened to the feedback from local authorities, industry, and beneficiaries – said an official from the ministry, speaking on condition of anonymity. The changes come after over 1,300 public comments were submitted during consultations.
Higher cost limits and extended deadlines
Another key adjustment concerns the maximum eligible costs for key renovation items. Currently, the program caps replacement windows at 480 PLN per square meter and external wall insulation at 100 PLN per square meter. Market prices for energy-efficient triple-glazed windows with installation often exceed 700-1,000 PLN, while complete wall insulation typically costs 180-300 PLN per square meter, depending on the region and materials. The ministry has not yet revealed which specific limits will be raised, but expects to announce detailed figures next month.
The deadline for completing projects after receiving an advance payment will also be extended from 120 to 180 days. This change is meant to help homeowners who start insulation, roofing, or window replacement in autumn or winter, when weather conditions often delay work. – The extra two months will reduce the risk of failing to settle the advance – explained a ministry spokesperson.
Simplified documentation for old boilers
The process of confirming the permanent removal of old solid fuel boilers will also be streamlined. Currently, only a narrow category of professionals can issue the required certificates, causing delays and additional costs in many regions. The new rules will allow any person with appropriate construction qualifications to issue the confirmation, making it easier for homeowners to finalize their grant claims.
The July package is only the first phase. More complex systemic changes, such as creating a list of approved contractors and introducing a 'bon na audyt’ (audit voucher) to cover the cost of mandatory energy audits, are still under analysis and consultation. The ministry noted that some require agreements with the European Investment Bank, which finances the program. These are expected to be rolled out later this year or in 2026.
Currently, the program covers up to 1,200 PLN for an energy audit in the highest support level, yet market rates for a single-family home audit range from 1,500 to 3,000 PLN. Homeowners must often pay the difference out-of-pocket before applying. The new audit voucher is intended to solve this problem.
The program is operated by the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management, 16 regional funds, and 2,262 communes, of which 1,401 act as local operators handling the highest levels of grants.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. alexgo.photography, MKiŚ / Shutterstock
