Poland: Poland's Energy Minister Milosz Motyka said Monday the country's increasingly diversified electricity system is not at risk of widespread power shortages.

According to Anadolu Agency, record-low water levels have been seen in parts of the San, Bug, and Warta river basins, as well as in sections of the upper and middle Vistula. Poland's Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) reported that hydrologists have warned that high temperatures, a persistent rainfall deficit, and strong evaporation could push more rivers to record lows.

The drought has already impacted the 1.8-gigawatt Polaniec power station on the Vistula in southeastern Poland, where one of its eight generating units was unavailable earlier this month due to low water levels. Plant operator Enea stated that output from individual units was being adjusted to hydrological conditions to ensure their safe operation and maintain electricity supplies. At nearby Szczucin, the Vistula was measured at 76 centimeters, just 12 cm above its previous record low. Industrial water supplies to an economic zone in Stalowa Wola, on the San River, have also been suspended.

Poland has struggled with low river levels for much of the summer. In late July, IMGW noted that 61% of monitored rivers were already in the low-water zone, while 259 monitoring stations were recording flows below the long-term low-flow threshold, known as SNQ, used as an indicator of hydrological drought.

Despite the deteriorating water situation, Motyka has sought to allay concerns over electricity supplies during periods of extreme heat. He emphasized that Poland's system is resilient and prepared for such temperatures, citing investments in grid infrastructure and a more diversified generation mix.

Polish grid operator PSE has also stated that there is currently no threat of electricity shortages and that adequate reserve capacity remains available. Solar power provides additional generation during daylight hours, although extreme heat can reduce the efficiency of photovoltaic panels while also increasing demand for air conditioning.

Poland's current drought follows years of increasingly severe low-water episodes. IMGW explains that hydrological drought occurs when river flows remain below the long-term SNQ threshold, indicating a sustained shortage of water rather than a temporary decline after several dry days.