The CHP plant is moving away from burning coal. But biomass isn't popular either.

• The aim of the project, worth approximately EUR 100 million, is to completely phase out coal combustion at the Częstochowa CHP plant and switch to certified biomass.
• The investment will provide residents with a stable, low-emission and predictable heat supply, and is scheduled for completion in 2027.
• Currently, the Częstochowa CHP plant uses a mix of 70 percent coal and 30 percent biomass.

In Częstochowa, Fortum is implementing one of the largest green heating investments in the region. The project, worth approximately €100 million, aims to completely phase out coal combustion at the Częstochowa CHP plant and switch to certified biomass. The company emphasizes that the investment will provide residents with a stable, low-emission, and predictable heat supply, and is scheduled for completion in 2027.

The decarbonization project is a process Fortum has been preparing for for several years. As part of the investment, the existing CHP plant infrastructure is being modernized to accommodate the combustion of certified plant-based biomass only. The modernization will include, among other things, the reconstruction of the fluidized bed boiler, the construction of fuel unloading systems, and the expansion of storage and internal transport systems.

Currently, the Częstochowa CHP plant uses a mix of 70 percent coal and 30 percent biomass . Initially, there was talk of building a waste-to-energy boiler in Częstochowa, but it was ultimately decided that after the modernization was completed, the CHP plant would operate solely on certified plant-based biomass from local suppliers.

The fuel will be stored in airtight, closed silos, eliminating odor and noise emissions and ensuring sanitary safety. The combustion process will take place in a modern installation with continuous emissions monitoring, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

Fortum has been using biomass in Częstochowa for 15 years. The planned modernization is a continuation of a proven approach and increases the share of a fuel it knows well and has many years of experience with. The decarbonization project is a response to the need to increase energy security, reduce emissions, and counteract future heat price increases. By using biomass, Fortum maintains some of the lowest heat prices in the country – and investment in carbon-free technology will help maintain this trend.

- the company emphasizes.

However, the company's plans have raised concerns among one of the councillors, who is collecting signatures from residents against the investment.

"We are beginning a fight against the Fortum Power company on Rejtana Street, which is switching 100% to burning biomass (waste in various forms). The fight will be difficult because the company has already obtained all the necessary permits. However, this was done without consultation with the public and the district council. The protest has reached all important institutions. We expect a re-examination of the decisions issued," wrote Councilor Krystyna Stefańska.

In response, Fortum emphasizes that it takes the concerns expressed by some residents of the Zawodzie-Dąbie district seriously. "We understand that the proximity of the investment may raise questions, which is why we have planned informational activities and invite residents to participate," Fortum said.

The company announces that in the coming weeks, it will also open information points where residents can obtain detailed information about the investment, technology, and environmental issues. Another Open House at the CHP plant will be held in early September, during which residents will be able to see the plant from the inside, learn about the decarbonization project, and speak with experts.

Transforming the heating sector is one of the most important challenges facing the energy sector in Poland. That's why we place such great importance on ensuring that our investments not only align with climate policy but also genuinely address the needs of local communities. In Częstochowa, our goals are cleaner air, predictable heating costs, and a high quality of life for residents.

- says Kamila Zybura-Pluta, Investment Implementation Director at Fortum.