Energy of change is flowing through Silesia. The Racibórz – Rybnik gas pipeline is ready for operation
GAZ-SYSTEM has completed construction of the Racibórz – Rybnik gas pipeline, the first element of a strategic trunk line that will ultimately connect Racibórz with Oświęcim. The project will enhance the region’s energy security, increase the flexibility of the national gas transmission system and accelerate the development of low-carbon energy sources.
Scope and technical parameters of the project- We are building the gas infrastructure of the future – one that is more flexible and ready for change and market trends. The new gas pipeline network is a catalyst for the region’s development, as access to stable energy sources encourages investment. The new Racibórz – Rybnik gas pipeline also confirms our commitment to the energy transition in Silesia. We are providing a real opportunity to improve air quality in this region, whilst strengthening the energy security of its residents – said Dariusz Bogdan, member of the GAZ-SYSTEM management board.
The gas pipeline was constructed in the municipalities of Racibórz, Nędza, Lyski, Kuźnia Raciborska and Rybnik in the Silesian Province. Two Line Valve Stations (in Markowice and Ochojec), a Pig Launcher and Receiver in Racibórz, and a fibre-optic telemetry line enabling real-time monitoring of the system’s operation were constructed along the pipeline route. The Racibórz – Rybnik gas pipeline has been connected to the Kędzierzyn-Koźle – Racibórz pipeline section, commissioned in 2025, and to the connection pipeline leading to the combined cycle power plant in Rybnik, forming a gas transmission trunk line with a total length of 80 km.
The project required the use of advanced technologies. The Contractor completed 20 trenchless crossings, including an 800-metre HDD crossing under the Oder River and the Racibórz ring road, as well as a Direct Pipe crossing under the Sumina River and railroad infrastructure.
Key environmental and social aspects
As part of environmental compensation measures, the company installed over 150 nesting boxes for birds and bats even before construction works began, and planted over three thousand trees and shrubs after completion.
During construction, GAZ-SYSTEM was engaged in continuous communication with local authorities and residents in the areas affected by the project. The company undertook a range of activities for the benefit of local communities in the areas along the gas pipeline route. The financial benefit for the municipalities resulting from this project will be an annual property tax of 2 per cent of the value of the transmission infrastructure in the respective administration unit.
EU funding
GAZ-SYSTEM continues to invest in the national gas transmission system to strengthen the gas infrastructure and ensure high-quality fuel supply to customers throughout Poland. The company has secured funding for the project ‘Construction of the Kędzierzyn-Koźle – Racibórz – Rybnik gas pipeline’ under the European Funds for Infrastructure, Climate and Environment 2021–2027 (FEnIKS) programme. The total value of the funding allocated for the construction of new gas pipelines along this route amounts to PLN 180,450,765.45. The European Union co-financing confirms the importance of the Racibórz – Rybnik gas pipeline for the energy transition and sustainable development of the gas sector in Poland.
