VSB (part of TotalEnergies) is building a 303 MW solar park on 260 hectares northeast of Wrocław – electricity for 117,000 households from 2027

Lower Silesia as the center of the Polish energy transition

The Lower Silesian Voivodeship is developing into a central hub of the Polish photovoltaic revolution. One of Europe's most ambitious solar projects is currently being built in this region: the VSB Solar Park, with an installed capacity of 303 megawatts peak, which, upon completion, could be one of the largest photovoltaic plants in Poland. The VSB Group, a subsidiary of the French energy giant TotalEnergies, secured the contract for this flagship project in an auction held by the Polish energy regulator URE.

The project covers an area of ​​more than 260 hectares northeast of the Silesian metropolis of Wrocław and represents a turning point in the Polish energy landscape. After its planned commissioning, the plant will generate enough clean energy annually to supply approximately 117,000 households with climate-friendly electricity. This amount of energy corresponds to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions and underscores the potential of large-scale solar projects for the decarbonization of the Polish energy system.

The strategic positioning of VSB and TotalEnergies

The realization of this megaproject is being managed by the VSB Group, which has been fully part of the TotalEnergies portfolio since April 2025. The French energy group acquired the VSB Group for a purchase price of €1.57 billion, sending a clear signal of its ambitions in the renewable energy sector. This acquisition brings TotalEnergies an extensive project pipeline of over 18 gigawatts and more than 475 megawatts of capacity under its own operation.

The acquisition fits into TotalEnergies' strategic vision of achieving 100 terawatt hours of net electricity production from renewable sources by 2030. VSB CEO Felix Grolman emphasizes that the group can provide over five gigawatts of production and storage capacity in Europe alone in the coming years. This partnership combines VSB's long-standing expertise in renewable energy development with TotalEnergies' financial strength and global network.

Financing structure and regulatory framework

The VSB project benefits from an innovative financing structure via a Contract for Difference (CfD) agreement, which guarantees long-term price stability for 15 years. These CfD contracts have established themselves as a proven tool for risk mitigation in large-scale renewable energy projects and provide the necessary planning security for investors. The financing model provides for projects to initially receive funding for up to 25 years, with a guaranteed, inflation-indexed remuneration for the electricity generated during the first 100,000 hours of operation at full load.

The Polish Energy Regulatory Authority (URE) regularly conducts auctions in which project developers compete for government subsidies. These auctions have proven to be an effective means of both keeping costs low for consumers and promoting the expansion of renewable energy. The new system has replaced the previous certificate model and, through mandatory direct marketing based on the differential pricing system, offers strong guidance on electricity price developments.

Schedule and technical implementation

Construction of the VSB project is scheduled to begin in October 2025, with grid connection planned for the second quarter of 2027. This schedule reflects the complexity of large-scale solar projects, which require extensive preparation in the areas of permitting, grid integration, and logistics. The fully approved project already has all necessary regulatory approvals and can therefore be implemented on schedule.

The technical implementation of the project will incorporate state-of-the-art photovoltaic technology optimized for maximum energy yield and longevity. Hubert Kowalski, Managing Director of VSB Poland, emphasizes that the project could be developed into one of Europe's largest hybrid energy projects in just a few years, combining photovoltaics, battery storage, and wind energy. This hybrid approach maximizes land use efficiency and contributes to grid stability.

Poland as the leading photovoltaic market in Europe

Poland has developed into one of the most dynamic photovoltaic markets in Europe in recent years. At the end of May 2025, installed photovoltaic capacity in Poland already reached 22,636.3 megawatts, representing an impressive growth of 19.6 percent compared to the previous year. With a share of 64.16 percent of renewable energy, photovoltaics ranks first in the Polish renewable energy sector.

The development of the Polish solar market shows a clear shift from micro-installations to larger systems. While micro-installations accounted for 74.9 percent of installed capacity in 2022, this share fell to 63.9 percent by 2024. At the same time, the share of large-scale photovoltaic farms grew significantly, reflecting the increasing professionalization and industrialization of the market.

Growth is driven by several factors: falling technology costs, increasing environmental awareness, supportive government programs such as "My Electricity" and "Clean Air," and rising prices for conventional energy. Poland leads the European Union in terms of photovoltaic capacity growth, ranking fourth in terms of capacity addition.

The role of Lower Silesia in the regional energy landscape

Lower Silesia has strategically positioned itself as a focal point for Polish photovoltaic development. In addition to the VSB project, numerous other significant solar parks are being built here, fundamentally transforming the region's energy profile. The geographical location offers optimal solar radiation and has the necessary infrastructure for connecting large-scale power generation plants to the grid.

The region benefits from its strategic proximity to Germany and the Czech Republic, which facilitates both technology transfer and potential cross-border energy trade. Lower Silesia boasts a well-developed infrastructure and a skilled workforce necessary for the implementation and operation of complex energy projects. These factors have contributed to the establishment of several international energy companies in the region.

Other significant projects in the region include various solar parks of varying sizes. SachsenEnergie AG, for example, has acquired three solar parks with a total capacity of 23.1 megawatts peak in the region. International corporations such as PepsiCo have also commissioned photovoltaic systems near Wrocław, which cover a significant portion of the energy needs of their production facilities.

Technological innovation and hybrid concepts

The VSB project in Lower Silesia represents more than just a conventional solar power plant. Plans envisage the project being expanded into a hybrid energy system combining photovoltaics, battery storage, and wind energy. This integrative approach increases grid stability and maximizes the yield from renewable energy through the complementarity of different energy sources.

Hybrid projects offer several advantages: They optimize land use, reduce grid connection and infrastructure costs, and improve security of supply through diversified energy generation. The integration of battery storage systems enables energy to be stored temporarily during peak production periods and released when needed, contributing to grid stability and improving the market integration of renewable energy.

VSB already has experience with hybrid projects in Poland. The company previously developed a combined wind energy and photovoltaic project with a potential for approximately 170 megawatts of installed capacity in Lower Silesia. This experience is being incorporated into the planning of the current 303-megawatt project and underscores its commitment to innovative energy solutions.

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More about it here:

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Impact on local economies and communities

Dialogue with local communities plays a crucial role in the success of the VSB project. Hubert Kowalski emphasizes that projects of this magnitude can only be realized with the consent and support of local stakeholders. VSB maintains ongoing dialogue with the affected communities to jointly develop sustainable solutions for renewable energy projects.

Large-scale solar projects bring significant economic benefits to the region. During the construction phase, numerous jobs are created in various areas, from site preparation and solar panel installation to electrical work and project management. Upon completion, the project generates long-term revenue through taxes and lease payments to local communities.

The establishment of large-scale energy projects also contributes to the development of local infrastructure. Roads are often upgraded, grid capacity expanded, and technical expertise brought to the region. These investments have positive spillover effects on other economic sectors and can increase the region's attractiveness for further investment.

European Energy Strategy and Polish Ambitions

The VSB project fits into the broader objectives of the European Energy Strategy. As part of the REPowerEU plan, a solar energy strategy was adopted that envisages the dynamic development of photovoltaics. The strategy aims to increase installed photovoltaic capacity in the EU to more than 320 gigawatts by 2025 and to almost 600 gigawatts by 2030.

New EU regulations make the installation of photovoltaic systems on the roofs of buildings mandatory in member states. In Poland, these regulations will be implemented gradually: starting in 2026 for new commercial and public buildings and starting in 2029 for new residential buildings. These regulatory changes will further stimulate demand for solar energy and contribute to the popularization of this technology.

Poland has ambitious national targets for the expansion of renewable energy. Installed photovoltaic capacity is expected to reach 22 to 27 gigawatts by 2025, a significant increase compared to previous years. Annual growth in installed capacity could exceed 20 percent between 2022 and 2025, and photovoltaics could account for 18 percent of total national electricity generation.

Energy transition made in Poland: Opportunities and prospects of photovoltaics

Despite impressive growth, the Polish photovoltaic sector faces several challenges. Integrating large amounts of volatile renewable energy into the existing power grid requires significant investments in grid infrastructure and storage technologies. Grid modernization and expansion are crucial to fully utilize the capacity of planned solar projects.

Another critical aspect is the development of storage technologies. Battery storage systems are becoming increasingly important for balancing fluctuations in solar power generation and ensuring a stable energy supply. Poland has already launched its first tenders for combined photovoltaic and storage projects, underscoring the growing importance of these technologies.

The successful implementation of the VSB project will depend crucially on various factors. Kowalski points out that success will depend on the future economic conditions and regulatory requirements. Political stability, continued support for renewable energies, and a predictable regulatory framework are essential for the sector's continued growth.

VSB as a pioneer of renewable energies in Poland

VSB has established itself as one of the leading developers of renewable energy in Poland. The company can already point to successful projects, including the 190.8-megawatt Miejska Górka wind farm, currently the largest onshore wind farm in the country. This project was developed for its client and partner TAURON Zielona Energia and underscores VSB's ability to successfully implement complex, large-scale projects.

In addition, VSB successfully commissioned the Racibórz wind farm with a total capacity of 41.6 megawatts. This facility saves approximately 44,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually and supplies approximately 36,000 households in the southern Polish region of Silesia with cleanly produced electricity. The experience gained from these projects will be incorporated into the planning and implementation of the 303-megawatt solar park.

VSB is increasingly relying on hybrid energy solutions that combine various renewable energy sources. This integrated approach increases grid stability and maximizes the yield from renewable energy. Combining wind, solar, and storage technologies in a single project increases supply security and improves the flexibility of the energy system.

Market development and competitive environment

The Polish renewable energy market has become increasingly competitive. In addition to VSB, numerous other international companies are active, including RWE, which won contracts for 31 solar projects with a total capacity of 84 megawatts in the recent Polish auction. This diversity of market players contributes to innovation and cost reductions.

RWE already operates wind farms with a total installed capacity of 541 megawatts and photovoltaic solar parks with a total capacity of 91 megawatts in Poland. The company is also developing its first Polish offshore project, the FEW Baltic II offshore wind farm, signaling the expansion of renewable energy into maritime sectors.

The presence of international corporations such as hep, which has acquired a 100-megawatt portfolio of photovoltaic projects in Poland, underscores the attractiveness of the Polish market. These companies bring international experience, advanced technologies, and capital to the Polish market, further accelerating the pace of growth.

Technological trends and innovations

The Polish photovoltaic industry benefits from continuous technological advances. The efficiency of solar modules is constantly increasing, while costs continue to fall. New technologies such as bifacial modules, which can absorb sunlight from both sides, and advanced inverter technologies are contributing to improved energy yield.

Integration into intelligent energy management systems is becoming increasingly important. Smart grid technologies enable optimized control of energy production and distribution, which is particularly beneficial for large-scale solar projects. These systems can improve grid stability and enable more efficient integration of renewable energy.

Digitalization is playing a growing role in the monitoring and maintenance of solar plants. Modern monitoring systems use artificial intelligence and machine learning to detect anomalies early and increase maintenance efficiency. These technologies help extend the lifespan of systems and maximize energy production.

Environmental impact and sustainability

The VSB project will significantly contribute to reducing CO2 emissions in Poland. By generating clean electricity for 117,000 households, the project will reduce the demand for fossil-fueled energy. This is particularly significant in Poland, where electricity production has traditionally been heavily dependent on coal-fired power plants.

The environmental impacts of large-scale solar farms are carefully assessed and minimized. Modern planning approaches consider biodiversity conservation, habitat preservation, and integration into the existing landscape structure. Extensive grazing or near-natural vegetation can often be established between solar modules, contributing to the preservation of ecological diversity.

The recyclability of photovoltaic modules is becoming increasingly important. The industry is developing circular economy models that ensure the sustainable disposal and recycling of materials at the end of their service life. These approaches further reduce the ecological footprint of solar energy and support the sustainability of the entire value chain.

Central and Eastern Europe on the move: Poland's path to decarbonization

The VSB project in Lower Silesia marks a turning point in Poland's energy transition and could serve as a model for similar large-scale projects in other European markets. Its successful implementation will further strengthen Poland's position as a leading photovoltaic market in Europe and encourage international investors to develop further projects.

The strategic partnership between VSB and TotalEnergies lays the foundation for an accelerated expansion of renewable energy in Europe. With a project pipeline of over 18 gigawatts and TotalEnergies' financial resources, the group is well positioned to play a leading role in the European energy transition.

The developments in Poland could also have an impact on other Central and Eastern European markets. Countries such as Bulgaria, Romania, and the Czech Republic are closely monitoring Poland's successes and could adopt similar support models and development strategies. This could contribute to a regional acceleration of the energy transition and strengthen Central and Eastern Europe's position as a key region for renewable energies.

The VSB megaproject thus not only represents the progress of solar energy in Poland, but also symbolizes the broader transition towards a sustainable, decarbonized energy future in Europe. With its planned completion in 2027, it will make a significant contribution to European climate policy and serve as a beacon for the next generation of renewable energy projects.

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