Fear in Rybnik. People are afraid of losing their jobs

A large investment is currently underway at the power plant, which has been operating since the 1970s. They are building a steam and gas unit worth several billion złoty, which in the future is to replace four coal-fired units with a total capacity of 900 megawatts. However, it will take at least two years before the new unit is put into service. The plan is to put it into service at the end of 2026. In turn, the power plant is to be shut down by the end of 2025. It is therefore not surprising that employees, often employed there for several decades, are concerned about their future.

Statement by the President of Rybnik and the President of PGE GiEK SA

Joint Statement of the Rybnik City Hall and PGE GiEK SA regarding the situation of the Rybnik Power Plant

In connection with the information appearing in the media regarding the future of the Rybnik Power Plant and the supply of heat to residents and companies located in its vicinity, we would like to assure you that both PGE GiEK SA and the Rybnik City Hall are taking all necessary steps to ensure stable energy and heat supplies.

Heat supply:

The current heat supply agreements are valid until August 31, 2026. Until then, PGE GiEK SA will continue to fulfill its obligations related to the generation, transmission and distribution of heat.
At the same time, in accordance with the letter sent to the City Hall on August 27, 2024, PGE GiEK SA assures that appropriate actions will be taken to secure the continuity of heat supply also after that date – “actions will be taken to secure the supply of heat to recipients in the period from January 1, 2026 until it is possible to change their supplier or until the time resulting from applicable legal regulations or concluded agreements”. For residents and businesses, this means that there is no risk of interruption of supplies – PGE GiEK SA will ensure continuity of services until a new solution is developed or the supplier is changed.

Rybnik Power Plant employees:

PGE GiEK is holding talks with the social side representing employees in order to work out the best solutions for employees. In accordance with the Act of August 17, 2023, employees of Rybnik Power Plant have been covered by the provisions on social protection, which guarantees them additional security during the energy transformation. In addition, the internal regulations in force at PGE GiEK SA introduce additional, more beneficial solutions for employees, which significantly exceed the statutory requirements.
The power plant management maintains a constant dialogue with the social side, ensuring open and transparent communication about the future of the staff.

The future of Rybnik Power Plant:

Currently, construction of a modern gas and steam unit is underway. This investment, worth PLN 4.6 billion, is of key importance not only for the local community, but also for Poland’s energy security. The new unit, which is to start operating at the end of 2026, will supply electricity to about 2 million recipients. It is one of the most important projects in the energy sector in the country.
The Rybnik City Hall and PGE GiEK SA are in constant contact, and on September 16, 2024, a much earlier planned meeting took place, during which details related to the further operation of the power plant and heat supply were discussed. At the meeting, a working group was established, whose task will be to develop target solutions related to heat supply after the completion of the energy transformation at the power plant.
We want to reassure residents – all actions are taken with the aim of ensuring energy security and continuity of heat supply, and the ongoing arrangements will not negatively affect recipients. Everything is taking place according to plan and in compliance with the highest standards, and above all with residents and employees in mind.

Jacek Kaczorowski – President of the Management Board of PGE GiEK SA
Piotr Kuczera – Mayor of the City of Rybnik