New Energy
Europe’s Cold Snap Puts Thousands of New Heat Pumps to the Test
Poland, one of Europe’s most coal-dependent nations, is pivoting to heat pumps as it attempts to triple its renewables capacity by 2030.
Polish homeowners are increasingly looking to solar panels and heat pumps to heat their homes.
Photographer: Damian Lemański/BloombergThe Arctic cold snap hitting Europe this week will be a test for thousands of Polish families that in recent years replaced coal furnaces with solar panels and heat pumps to heat their homes.
Temperatures are expected to drop to -5C (23F) later this week in Warsaw, almost 4C below average temperatures for this time of year. While Poland remains one of Europe’s most coal-dependent nations, homeowners are increasingly looking for cheaper and cleaner solutions.