Energy and infrastructure as drivers of regional development – Ignitis Renewables at the European Congress of Local Governments in Mikołajki

The European Congress of Local Governments, which took place on March 2–3 in Mikołajki, is one of the most important events dedicated to local governments. Among the participants were representatives of the central administration, business, and experts from various fields of the economy. During two intensive days, participants had the opportunity to talk, exchange experiences, and build relationships that set the direction for regional development in a dynamically changing reality.

Ignitis Renewables made a significant contribution to the Congress. Jacek Wojerz, member of the management board and COO, spoke at the panel "Economic development of regions through infrastructure, industry, and cross-border partnerships," presenting the key challenges facing the energy sector. He pointed out that the growing demand for energy and the rapid increase in the share of renewable energy sources in the national energy mix require a thorough modernization of transmission networks, which continue to operate according to the assumptions of the previous energy model. Infrastructure adaptation—including changing transmission directions and integrating new capacity being developed in the north of the country—is essential for regions to fully exploit their investment potential.

Jacek Wojerz also emphasized that companies are increasingly looking for stable, local energy sources, and local governments that take care of preparing investment areas and infrastructure facilities early on gain a significant competitive advantage. The future of regional development therefore depends on skilful responses to changes in the energy sector and on effective cooperation between business and local government, which enables the creation of modern regions that are resilient to challenges and attractive to investors.

During the debate, experts also drew attention to the role of innovation, education, and human capital, which are the foundation of the development of the modern economy. The importance of simultaneously strengthening the technological base and the skills of residents was emphasized, as this allows regions to compete more effectively in the investment and labor markets.

Another important element of the discussions was the perspective of local governments in the southern border regions of the country, which are facing depopulation, infrastructure challenges, and fierce competition for investors. It was noted that cross-border cooperation in the areas of energy, the labor market, and education opens up new development opportunities for these regions and strengthens their position in the international arena.