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Clean Air Programme Introduces New Rules: What Changes from 20 July and What Does It Mean for the RES Sector?

21 July 2026
New regulations for the Clean Air programme came into force on 20 July 2026. Designed by the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (NFOŚiGW), these updates aim to simplify access to funding, streamline project delivery, and further align the programme with high-efficiency energy solutions. This is crucial news for homeowners, manufacturers, installers, and businesses operating across the renewable energy sources (RES) sector.

Broader Programme Accessibility

Among the most significant updates is the expansion of exemptions regarding the requirement to own a property for a specified duration before applying. Consequently, individuals who acquired property through adverse possession will now also qualify for funding. The regulations concerning properties resulting from land division or merging have also been clarified.

While the core rule of "one beneficiary – one building" remains unchanged, the new framework opens the door to support for an expanded group of homeowners.

Increased Support for Deep Renovation

The amendment also delivers a 10% increase in maximum subsidy rates for selected thermal modernisations. Higher grant levels will now cover:

  • Wall and building envelope insulation,
  • Window replacements,
  • External door replacements,
  • Garage door replacements.

This signals that the programme is increasingly focusing on comprehensive building-efficiency improvements rather than solely on replacing heating sources.

Extended Project Delivery Timelines

Beneficiaries utilising pre-financing have been granted additional time to complete works covered by the advance payment. The deadline has been extended from 120 to 180 days, which should ease project delivery amidst longer supply lead times and tight contractor schedules.

This extension also applies to a portion of previously signed contracts – subject to appropriate document updates.

Streamlined Settlement Paperwork and Administration

A key administrative simplification is the expanded pool of professionals authorised to verify technical documentation. Alongside master chimney sweeps, qualified construction professionals holding relevant building licences will now be eligible to issue the required paperwork.

Additionally, applicants working alongside programme operators will now be able to draft working versions of their applications directly within the Funding Application Generator.

A Sharper Focus on High-Efficiency Heating Sources

Critical news for the heating industry includes refined guidelines regarding the Green Devices and Materials List (ZUM). Concurrently, NFOŚiGW has signalled the next phase of the programme's evolution.

From 2027 onwards, financial support will exclusively cover the most energy-efficient heating options. In practice, this marks a shift away from funding electric heating systems other than heat pumps. Grants will no longer be available for items such as electric boilers, electric radiators, or heating mats.

This sends a clear message to the market that the programme’s evolution will focus firmly on solutions delivering maximum energy efficiency and the greatest emission reductions.

What Remains Unchanged?

The core foundations of the programme reform implemented in 2025 remain firmly in place. Applicants are still required to complete an energy audit and secure an energy performance certificate. At the same time, the programme continues to rely on its operator network, eligible cost caps, and established income thresholds. The exclusion of funding for gas boilers also remains unchanged.

Why Do These Changes Matter for the RES Industry?

The Clean Air programme remains one of the primary drivers behind the energy modernisation of Polish homes. Every shift in its rules directly impacts equipment manufacturers, installation companies, system designers, and the wider renewable energy sector.

Trade fairs like ENEX offer industry professionals the ideal platform to explore the latest technological advancements, legislative updates, and market trends. This year’s programme modifications demonstrate that the future belongs to comprehensive thermal retrofits and high-efficiency heating technologies, which are already shaping the roadmap for the RES sector.

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11 June 2026
Each month, we'll publish Index-ENEX on the ENEX website – a proprietary overview of the most important events, trends, and decisions that influence the development of the energy sector in Poland and Europe. Commentary and analyses will be provided by renowned journalists, industry experts, and representatives of energy-related organisations and associations.