Circular Economy as an Element of Poland’s Energy Security System

Abstract

The development of Poland will not be possible without ensuring a reliable supply of electricity and heat for the economy. Unfortunately, energy generation is based on outdated infrastructure. The average age of power plants is 47 years, and the largest heat plants were commissioned almost 60 years ago. Another issue is that approximately 60% of electricity and heat production still comes from coal combustion. One of the factors that could positively impact this situation and support the energy transition is the implementation of a circular economy. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to present the significance of adopting a circular economy model in reducing energy demand, which would contribute to strengthening Poland’s energy security. It has been emphasized that a circular economy can reduce the demand for critical raw materials in low-emission technologies by up to 90%, for metals, mineral resources, and plastics by up to 50%, for water by up to 40%, and for fossil fuels by up to 30%. These changes would substantially lower energy demand and improve Poland’s energy security.