Energa builds intelligent parking system

Energa, a group operating in production and trade in electric and heat energy in Poland, is the third largest distribution system operator in Poland in terms of volume of supplied energy. Now, the capital group whose shares are from December 2013 listed on Warsaw Stock Exchange, announced its new project – in Peplin in the Pomerania region, intelligent parking system will be created.

A driver using a smartphone application will be able to check free parking space. The goal of the system is to minimise unnecessary car traffic when finding space to park. What is interesting, the application will be able to determine the size of the car and select parking space accordingly.

Apart from that, every user is to have an option to select their own parking preferences. Additionally, the system is to monitor parking lot safety due to video cameras set up on the light poles owned by Energa. Image from cameras is to be analysed using Intelligence Video Analytics algorithms.

Talks between the commune and Energa resulted in signing a letter of intent formalising the plans of joint completion of the “Intelligent and Safe Parking in Peplin” project. The investment is planned to be completed in the middle of March 2017.

The project’s technological partner is Comarch, which is to supply the entire system and also set everything up. The investment is a part of Energa Group’s strategy for 2016-2025, the aim of which is concentration on the clients and development of new spheres of activity. As Dariusz Kasków, the president of Energa, informs, the group wants to be a partner for local governments in many areas – both in managing the use, distribution and storage of energy and through solutions such as the Intelligent Commune project.

An example of earlier investment of this type may be modernisation of street lighting in Bydgoszcz. Energy consuming sodium fitting was replaced with energy efficient LED fitting; intelligent system of remote control and monitoring of lighting was also launched.

Thanks to this, it was possible to change the intensity of lighting depending on the volume of road traffic. As a result of the changes, there was reported a 60 percent reduction in the cost of energy in the town, as well as a 60 percent reduction of carbon dioxide emission to the atmosphere.

Investment Outlook and Business Perspective

Poland remains one of the most attractive investment destinations in the European Union. With GDP exceeding EUR 650 billion, Poland is the sixth largest economy in the EU and the largest in Central and Eastern Europe. The country has maintained positive economic growth for over three decades, including through multiple global crises.

Foreign direct investment in Poland continues to grow, driven by the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, EU membership, competitive costs, and improving infrastructure. Key sectors attracting investment include manufacturing, technology, business services, logistics, and financial services.

For investors considering entry into the Polish market, proper structuring of the investment vehicle is crucial. The choice between a sp. z o.o. (LLC), S.A. (joint-stock company), branch office, or joint venture depends on the investment size, sector, tax considerations, and long-term strategic objectives. Professional advisory can help optimize the structure from both operational and tax perspectives.

If you are doing business in Poland or considering entering the Polish market, Zalewski Consulting can help. Learn more about our personal income tax advisory, or contact us for a free consultation.