Tauron Ciepło has begun construction of a low-emission gas cogeneration unit in Wolbrom, a project valued at around PLN 10 million. The 4 MWt source is designed to provide stable heat for approximately 3,000 residents and will be exempt from EU ETS emission allowance costs, according to the company.
The investment, carried out in partnership with the Wolbrom Housing Cooperative, is proceeding on schedule. The new unit will supply heat to residential buildings and is expected to be operational by the end of 2027. Tauron highlights that the cogeneration technology will improve efficiency and reduce air pollution compared to traditional coal-based heating, while also offering lower prices for consumers due to the absence of ETS charges.
Work on the project began in 2025 with a letter of intent. Since then, Tauron Ciepło has been preparing designs and securing permits. The gas-fired cogeneration unit will produce both heat and power, increasing overall energy efficiency. The company reports that all preparatory stages are on track.
Project scope and timeline
The project involves building a gas-fired combined heat and power (CHP) plant with a thermal capacity of around 4 MW. The exact electrical capacity was not disclosed, but typical installations of this size produce enough electricity to cover local demand. The investment is tailored to the needs of Wolbrom and its residents, with a focus on reliability and environmental performance.
“We are implementing further stages of the project and can confirm that all work is proceeding according to plan,” said Ireneusz Perkowski, vice president of Tauron Ciepło. “From the start, we aimed to create a solution that ensures security of heat supply, high efficiency, and lower prices for residents. Thanks to modern technologies, the new heat source in Wolbrom will be free from the ETS fee system.”
Strategic shift for Tauron
The Wolbrom investment is an integral part of Tauron Group’s strategy to completely phase out coal-fired heat production by 2030 and reach 100% low- and zero-emission sources. Local authorities have actively supported the project, viewing it as a driver for better air quality and energy security in the town.
Perkowski noted that the positive reception from residents has attracted additional interest. “We are also observing interest from other entrepreneurs and entities operating in Wolbrom who see the potential of this new ecological heat source and are considering connecting to the system. This is an important signal that the project meets real local needs and supports the town’s development,” he added.
With a budget of approximately PLN 10 million, the CHP plant will serve around 3,000 residents. It is expected to replace older coal-based boilers, significantly cutting emissions of pollutants and CO2. The exemption from ETS costs will make heat more affordable, as carbon prices in the EU have risen sharply in recent years. The project is seen as a replicable model for other Polish towns seeking to decarbonize their district heating systems while keeping costs under control.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. Tauron Polska Energia
