Heating Voucher 2026: Applications Open July 1 for Subsidies Up to 3,500 PLN

Starting July 1, 2026, Polish households using district heating can apply for government subsidies ranging from 1,000 to 3,500 PLN to offset rising energy costs, provided they meet specific income and price criteria.

Eligibility and Key Criteria

The 2026 heating voucher is designed for lower-income households reliant on district heating systems. To qualify, applicants must satisfy three conditions: meeting specific income thresholds, residing in buildings connected to municipal heating networks, and facing a net heating price exceeding 170 PLN per GJ.

For those slightly above the income limit, the program applies a “zloty for a zloty” mechanism, which reduces the subsidy amount proportionally rather than disqualifying the household entirely.

Subsidy Amounts and Price Tiers

The total financial support is determined by the net heating price rather than the number of household members. Support ranges from 1,000 PLN for prices between 170 and 200 PLN/GJ, up to 3,500 PLN for prices exceeding 230 PLN/GJ, representing a significant increase over the 2025 rates.

Application Process and Deadlines

Applications will be accepted from July 1, 2026, to August 31, 2026. Submissions can be made electronically via gov.pl or in person at local municipal offices. Applicants typically need to provide documentation from their property manager or housing cooperative confirming heating methods and costs.

Program Objectives and Exclusions

This initiative addresses the surge in heating costs following the expiration of previous price-limiting mechanisms. The program specifically targets residents in multi-family buildings connected to municipal networks, where tariff hikes have been most severe. Households using alternative heating sources or paying less than 170 PLN/GJ net are excluded from the subsidy.