On September 6-7, 2023, representatives of local authorities from the Białystok Functional Area, the Bydgoszcz Metropolis, and the Bydgoszcz-Toruń Functional Area visited Bydgoszcz for a study visit focused on urban energy management, organised as part of the DUET project. The main objective of this visit was to exchange experiences, learn about best practices in sustainable energy development within the city of Bydgoszcz, and seek inspiration for introducing new initiatives in their own municipalities.
The event began with a meeting between representatives of the Bydgoszcz Metropolitan Area and the Białystok Functional Area with the Mayor of Bydgoszcz at the City Hall. The guests had the opportunity to discuss energy management challenges, address needs, and explore potential actions and opportunities for collaboration between the cities.
Next, the participants visited Rother’s Mills, a post-industrial historic complex that now serves as a cultural and historical centre, where a conference on urban energy management was held. Mr. Marek Kempa, Head of the Administrative and Technical Department, gave a detailed presentation on the operation of the revitalized facility and explained the energy management approach used in the building. The participants also heard a presentation by Mr. Romuald Meyer, Managing Director of PGK S.A., on energy procurement models and energy self-sufficiency, as well as a presentation by Mr. Tomasz Bońdos, Head of the Energy Management Team, and his team, on the city’s energy management database, integrated monitoring system, and investments in renewable energy sources. The mayors had the chance to learn about the current activities, projects, and initiatives related to energy management and environmental protection in Bydgoszcz. The city’s achievements in this field and future plans were also presented. The event concluded with a presentation by Ms. Anna Jaskuła, Director of the Association of Municipalities Polish Network "Energie Cités," who provided insights into opportunities for improving energy efficiency in cities and municipalities. There was also time to explore the city’s charms during a guided tour and a boat trip on the Brda River.
On September 7, 2023, during the second day of the conference, participants had the opportunity to visit innovative and flagship energy management projects in Bydgoszcz. The first of these was the “Astoria” Recreation Center, one of the most modern facilities of its kind in Poland. Combined with a gym, cardio area, exercise room, and wellness area, it offers a comprehensive sports and recreation package for professional athletes and individuals who value active leisure. The facility is managed by the city and incorporates modern technological solutions, including photovoltaic panels and a water treatment system. The panels installed on the roof are one of the sources of electricity used in the facility. The panels have a capacity of 138 kW, and importantly, all the energy generated in this way is used to meet the building’s own needs. Thanks to the presence of Mr. Dariusz Białkowski, the facility manager, and Mr. Gracjan Topczewski, President of Bydgoskie Obiekty Sportowe, it was possible to gain detailed insight into the facility and its energy management.
In the second part of the day, participants visited the Bydgoszcz Industrial and Technological Park, where the Intermunicipal Waste Disposal Complex ProNatura Sp. z o.o. is located, allowing guests to learn about the facility’s specifics and discuss the generation of thermal energy and electricity from waste.
The study visit was inspiring for the mayors, demonstrating how commitment and action in sustainable development and energy efficiency can benefit local communities. The meeting was an important opportunity for knowledge and experience exchange between different municipalities, which may contribute to more efficient and sustainable energy use in Poland.
The goal of the DUET project is to develop energy management systems in cities by creating, testing, and disseminating tools supported by information and communication technologies. The project will analyse opportunities for more efficient energy monitoring and management in the city of Bydgoszcz, and subsequently, the existing energy data collection system will be improved. Interested cities (particularly those in the Bydgoszcz functional area) will receive support in developing their own management systems through participation in testing the best solutions and building a knowledge base.
Presentations:
Presentations from the event available on the Polish version of this website