Energy efficiency in the polish residential building stock: A literature review

The Polish energy market heavily relies on coal. Pressured by the European Union, the Polish government has recently decided to accelerate coal phase-out and to gradually shut down all coal mines by 2049. In that context, it is necessary to assess the Polish energy market's state regarding energy efficiency, especially in the building stock. This paper aims to provide an overview of the current state of energy efficiency of residential buildings in Poland and insights into its future trends. A literature review was conducted, accompanied by focus group discussions with Polish building energy efficiency experts. The Polish energy sector is under a remarkable transformation that may be going too fast. A large gap between expectations, practices, and requirements can be observed. Raising awareness and capacity building in the energy efficiency sector, and a set of accessible guidelines should be developed so that the transformation is implemented correctly. A SWOT analysis results define the key opportunities and threats that are critical to meet net-zero emissions goals. The paper provides findings and insights on the 2020 targets status quo and raises awareness among stakeholders and fills a knowledge gap regarding energy efficiency in the Polish residential building stock. • A review of more than 80 documents was performed. • Focus group discussions with 14 experts took place to conduct SWOT analysis. • First literature on the energy efficiency of the Polish residential building stock. • Significant weaknesses of the Polish energy efficiency gap were found. • Recommendations for policy reform including improved EPC scheme and inspection.