Poland Calls for Broader EU Exemptions Allowing Grid Operators to Own Battery Storage

October 21, 2026-Poland’s energy regulator has called for broader exemptions to European Union rules that generally restrict electricity grid operators from owning energy storage systems, as the country faces growing challenges in managing its rapidly expanding renewable energy capacity.

According to Reuters, the head of Poland’s Energy Regulatory Office (URE) has argued that grid operators should be permitted to own battery storage in additional circumstances where it is essential for maintaining grid stability. Under the current framework, such ownership is permitted only under specific conditions.

Poland’s electricity network is under increasing pressure from the rapid growth of distributed solar installations. Renewable electricity curtailment nearly doubled in 2025, reaching approximately 1.4 TWh, highlighting the need for additional flexibility and storage capacity.

Battery energy storage systems can help address these challenges by absorbing surplus electricity, releasing power when needed and supporting the more efficient operation of the grid.

The proposal highlights an important regulatory question for Europe’s energy transition: how to balance competition in electricity markets with the need for sufficient investment in grid flexibility.

If EU rules are adjusted to allow broader exemptions, the changes could influence how storage infrastructure is developed, owned and operated in Poland and potentially inform discussions in other European markets.