Poland’s parliament on Wednesday voted in favour of an amended bill to freeze energy prices put forward by Donald Tusk’s newly-formed coalition as it seeks to tackle an early challenge to its policies to introduce greener energy and replace coal.
The liberal Civic Coalition (KO) grouping, which looks poised to take power after an election in October, last week laid out the details of a plan to make renewable power the main source of Polish electricity by the end of the decade.
It prompted an angry response from outgoing Law and Justice (PiS) party, which has favoured coal that accounts for around 70% of Polish power, and stalled the development of wind generation.
In its amended form, the bill no longer includes provision that would have allowed wind farms to be built at a minimum distance of 300 meters (984.25 ft) from housing.
However, the measures on windfarms are expected to be tabled as separate legislation by the new government.
The revised bill also offers support to consumers by extending a freeze on energy prices until June 30, 2024.
It will now go to a parliamentary commission.
(Reuters)
