PGE Dystrybucja and Energa-Operator have secured PLN 407 million in co-financing from the European Funds for Eastern Poland (FEPW) program to advance intelligent power distribution networks in the region, according to an FEPW announcement. The funding agreements aim to support projects that enable the integration of distributed renewable energy sources (RES) into the grid, ensure stable energy supply, and foster the growth of zero-emission transport and industry. The total value of these contracts is PLN 687 million, with FEPW contributing PLN 407 million in EU funding. The newly signed agreements build on prior co-financing efforts under FEPW. The program has already allocated over EUR 160 million in EU funding, with six projects contracted in an earlier phase amounting to PLN 279 million in EU co-financing. Energa-Operator will receive PLN 63.5 million in EU funding for a smart grid development project in the Płock and Olsztyn branches, with a total project value of PLN 112.5 million. Meanwhile, PGE Dystrybucja will benefit from co-financing for three major projects: • Skarżysko-Kamienna branch: PLN 119.2 million in EU funding for a PLN 194.7 million project. • Białystok branch: PLN 172.4 million in EU funding for a PLN 290.7 million project. • Lublin branch: PLN 52.14 million in EU funding for a PLN 89 million project. PGE Dystrybucja, part of the PGE Group, plays a pivotal role in Poland’s energy market. The group generates 41% of Poland’s net electricity and holds an 18% share in the heat market, with 10% of its energy derived from renewable sources. PGE’s distribution network spans approximately 5.5 million km², representing a 25% market share in electricity distribution and 33% in sales to final customers. PGE has been publicly traded on the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE) since 2009 and is a component of the WIG20 index. Energa-Operator, part of the Orlen Group since April 2020, is Poland’s third-largest distribution system operator by energy supply and the third-largest electricity seller to final customers. The group’s power plants have a total installed generation capacity of approximately 1.34 GW. The funding and projects under FEPW aim to modernize Poland’s energy infrastructure, enhancing its resilience, efficiency, and alignment with sustainable energy goals. Source: PGE Dystrybucja and ISBnews Photo: PGE Dystrybucja