Energy Security of Local Government Units in the Face of the Energy Crisis in 2022–2023

This article analyses the adaptation strategies adopted by local government units (LGUs) in Poland in response to the energy crisis of 2022–2023. This crisis, caused by geopolitical tensions, rising commodity prices and instability of supply, posed a serious challenge to local authorities. The study used the case study method, and the analysis of data obtained as part of a nationwide survey conducted among 167 local government units, differentiated in terms of the type of commune and the number of inhabitants. The results indicate that the most commonly used measures were investments in renewable energy sources and the modernisation of energy infrastructure. At the same time, nearly half of the surveyed local government units did not have contingency plans in the event of interruptions in energy supply, which reveals significant gaps in crisis management. The article identifies the key factors affecting the effectiveness of the implemented measures and presents recommendations for strengthening the energy resilience of local government units. The study is distinguished by an innovative approach, and the study is one of the first empirical approaches in Poland that combines quantitative data analysis with the case study approach and contributes to the development of local energy policy in conditions of external instability.