Polish Decarb Cities 2025 is just around the corner – and momentum is building fast. On 13–14 May, around 40 leading voices in urban decarbonisation will come together at AGH University of Krakow for two days of high-level exchange, hands-on solutions, and shared ambition to accelerate Europe’s clean energy transition. With up to 200 participants expected, the event promises a dynamic mix of perspectives from across the continent.
Set on a dynamic campus that blends academic heritage with modern facilities, it’s the perfect setting for forward-thinking conversations and groundbreaking ideas for this fourth edition of the event, which has grown into a platform for city leaders, industry innovators, and researchers to connect on the challenge of decarbonising buildings and heating systems across Europe.
A powerhouse lineup – with Poland at the centre
The speaker programme brings together voices from across sectors and countries – from grassroots campaigners to city officials and EU-level policymakers.
A special focus is given to Poland, both as host country and as a key player in Central Europe’s energy transition. The programme reflects this with strong Polish representation in sessions, speakers, and topics – including insights from national experts, city leaders, and academic voices.
Expect contributions from:
- Paul Kenny, Director General, EHPA
- Prof. Dr. Hab. Inż. Krzysztof Mendrok, Vice-Rector, AGH University of Kraków
- Morgan Henley, EU Heating Sector Decarbonisation Campaigner, CEE Bankwatch Network
- Ciarán Cuffe, Former MEP & Rapporteur on the EU Buildings Directive
- Małgorzata Smuczyńska, Vice-President, PORT PC
- Waltraud Schmid, Head of Energy, Urban Innovation Vienna
- Laura de Rosa, Renewable energy and democracy campaigner, Greenpeace Central
- Bernard Swoczyna, Senior climate & energy policy analyst, Reform Institute Poland
- Jonathan Volt, Project Officer at European Commission’s Joint Research Centre
- Sarah Azau, Communications & events director, EHPA
And many more from cities like Dublin, Luxembourg, Bratislava, and Krakow itself.
Decarb Cities: a complete experience in Krakow
Decarb Cities 2025 isn’t just about ideas – it’s about experiences. This year’s programme invites participants to explore how energy transition works in practice, while also enjoying the flavours of Krakow’s hospitality.
Throughout the event, participants will enjoy hosted lunch breaks at Krakus, the AGH University restaurant on 13 May, and Wesele, a traditional Polish restaurant in the heart of the Old Town on 14 May.
At the end of the first day, join fellow attendees and speakers at the Gala Dinner, held in the historic Krakow City Hall – a limited-seating occasion that brings conversation and cuisine together in a truly special setting.
A highlight of day two is the guided site visit to the National Archives of Krakow, where a state-of-the-art geothermal heat pump installation is quietly driving efficiency in one of Poland’s most modern public buildings. The visit takes place on 14 May, 15:00–17:00 CEST, and will be led by Jakub Koczorowski, Vice-President of the Polish Organisation for Heat Pump Technology Development (PORT PC).
📄 Download the full attendee pack in English and in Polish for details on the programme, venues, and logistics.
Backed by organisations shaping Europe’s heat transition
This is the fourth edition of Decarb Cities, and its impact keeps growing. The event is co-organised by the European Heat Pump Association (EHPA) and The Polish Organisation for Heat Pump Technology Development (PORT PC), with the support of the City of Krakow, under the patronage of the Polish Presidency of the European Union, and hosted by the AGH University of Krakow.
Strong sponsorship from industry leaders reinforces the event’s real-world focus. Gold sponsors include Daikin Europe, Panasonic, and Turboden; Silver sponsors are Qvantum, Mitsubishi Electric, and Carel. Together, these players represent the cutting edge of clean heating — and they’ll be on-site to share their tools, tech, and thinking, each one leading a World Café table on 14 May.
With city mayors, engineers, EU policymakers, academics, campaigners, and innovators all in the same room, Decarb Cities 2025 isn’t just a conference. It’s a launchpad for what comes next.
📩 Haven’t secured your place yet? A few spots remain – be sure to register now to access the full experience.
