Precedent-setting climate litigation – defending an energy installation operator against NGO obstruction of an integrated permit

Client: large Polish energy group | 

The situation

A large energy group was conducting proceedings to obtain final and binding integrated permits (IPPC) for two of its installations. Environmental organisations, invoking climate arguments took coordinated steps to obstruct the issuance of these decisions. The case is unique on the Polish market: climate-related litigation targeting industrial installation operators is still rare in Poland, but growing rapidly in scope and frequency.

Our role

We are conducting strategic representation of the client before the courts. In parallel, we advise on implementing an adjustment plan designed to ensure the client’s operations are fully compliant with regulatory requirements, a plan that is also a central element of the legal arguments in the court proceedings.

The result

The case clearly illustrates a growing risk that operators of industrial installations in Poland must account for: NGOs are increasingly skilled at using legal tools, including climate arguments — as instruments to block or delay administrative decisions. Early preparation of a defence strategy is critical.

Is your installation exposed to NGO-initiated proceedings? Let’s talk about strategy.