Wedoany.com Report-Jun 28, A pilot project in Poland’s S5 expressway, stretching over 350 km from Grudziądz to Wrocław, is integrating renewable energy systems near two service areas to enhance sustainability. Operational since February 2025, the initiative includes a micro solar array with a vertical east-west layout using bifacial solar panels and power optimizers, alongside solar panels with various micro-inverter configurations.

The project also features wind turbines, a 10 kWh energy storage system, electric vehicle chargers, and a heat pump for utility water, all designed to maintain traffic safety. The electricity generated reduces operating costs for road infrastructure and supports the energy independence of the road operator. Excess power is sold to the grid or used to power electric vehicle charging stations.

Poznań University of Technology is leading the research under its Road Innovation Development program, supported in collaboration with Poland’s General Directorate for National Roads and Motorways (GDDKiA) and the National Center for Research and Development. University scientists are collecting data on solar and wind system performance, as well as storage unit efficiency, to guide the development of hybrid energy systems for GDDKiA’s road network.

A GDDKiA spokesperson stated: “The results obtained will constitute the basis for selecting the most economically, environmentally and functionally advantageous system for obtaining, storing and distributing electricity from renewable sources using infrastructure located in the road area.”

Poland’s solar sector grew significantly in 2024, adding 4 GW to reach a cumulative capacity of nearly 21 GW. In February 2025, the government relaunched a loan and subsidy program for rural solar installations and introduced a $1 billion energy storage subsidy scheme, which closed applications by May’s end.

This pilot project demonstrates Poland’s commitment to integrating renewable energy into its infrastructure, optimizing road operations, and supporting the nation’s transition to sustainable energy solutions.