Strategic Importance of Natural Gas in Polish Energy Policy: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

This article deals with the importance of natural gas as an energy source in Polish energy policy� Its purpose is to analyze the extent to which natural gas can provide for ensuring state energy security� This article covers issues related to the diagnosis of the gas sector in Poland (the most important economic entities, the functioning of the gas market), its role in the national energy strategy and prospects for future gas use� The article points out that natural gas, although important for maintaining and securing state energy security, is, however, not crucial in this regard� Multiannual strategies envisage diversification of the way of generating energy, which means the opportunity for renewable energy sources (RES) and nuclear energy� Natural gas has a secondary meaning in this context�