Post by E.ON Foundation

In Poland, acceptance of the energy transition is increasingly tied to one question: Does it improve daily life? Our #EuropeanSurvey2026, conducted by Civey, shows that the overall direction is still backed by a majority: 63% favour the goal of climate neutrality by 2050. At the same time, approval is becoming more conditional. People are more likely to accept concrete measures when they see a tangible link to energy security, affordability and practical relevance. Three findings stand out: 1️⃣ First, security of supply is the key condition. Confidence in a stable energy supply has fallen from 56% (2025) to 52%. The transition will only gain acceptance if it is seen as strengthening reliability. 2️⃣ Second, cost sensitivity is growing. The path towards sustainability is strongly shaped by a cost-saving orientation. This is reflected in attitudes towards carbon pricing: while 59% were in favour in 2025, 56% now oppose it in 2026 – the lowest level in Europe. 3️⃣ Third, local and everyday relevance matter. Expanding cycling infrastructure receives 63% approval, well above the EU average of 49%, making it the most broadly accepted climate measure. At the same time, Poland remains at the lower end of electric mobility adoption (5-6%) across the EU. This reflects a clear financial logic: green measures gain tracking when they remain affordable and make everyday life easier. For Andrzej Modzelewski, CEO of E.ON Polska and Fundacja E.ON w Polsce, the strategic implication is clear: climate measures must be framed less as abstract obligations and more as contributions to energy independence and everyday quality of life. Find out more in our focus paper on Poland: https://lnkd.in/dkVZaNFb