Poland’s gas transmission system operator, Gaz-System, has completed construction on a 39-kilometer (24-mile) pipeline between Racibórz and Rybnik, the company announced Monday.

The project marks a key step in the nation's efforts to transition its historic southern coal hub toward lower-emission energy sources.

Set to supply two upcoming gas-fired power units in Rybnik, the newly completed 700-millimeter (27.5-inch) diameter pipeline represents the first phase of a broader strategic artery designed to link Racibórz to Oświęcim.

The pipeline connects to an 80-kilometer transmission network that includes infrastructure commissioned last year. To minimize environmental impact during construction, workers utilized advanced trenchless drilling methods to navigate beneath the Oder River and local rail lines.

The project is part of Gaz-System's "Coal to Gas" investment program, which focuses on building modern energy infrastructure in southern Poland.

"We are building the gas infrastructure of the future — more flexible and ready for changes and market trends," said Dariusz Bogdan, a Gaz-System board member.

"The new pipeline network provides a development boost for the region, as access to stable energy sources encourages investment placement."

Bogdan added that the project confirms the company's commitment to the energy transition of the Silesia region, offering a concrete opportunity to improve air quality while strengthening regional energy security.

The announcement comes just a few moths after Gaz-System launched a public consultation to create the country’s first dedicated hydrogen pipeline network.

Meanwhile, the European Union played a critical role by backing the project through its FEnIKS infrastructure and climate fund, contributing more than 180 million zlotys (about $45 million).

Beyond energy security, the pipeline provides a financial benefit to local communities. The municipalities along the route will receive an annual property tax equal to 2% of the value of the pipeline infrastructure located within their borders.