Sale of Polish rail infrastructure

10.9.2015

Question for written answer E-012730-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Bogusław Liberadzki (S&D)

The EU allocates significant funds for the development and modernisation of rail infrastructure in Poland, including the traction network. This network supplies trains with 3 kV DC. In order for the traction network to be able to provide a DC power supply, it must first be transformed from AC in traction substations. According to Commission Regulation (EC) No 851/2006, substations and supply cables constitute elements of transport infrastructure. This infrastructure is usually state property, but in Poland it was transferred to a separate company ‘PKP Energetyka’ which is currently being sold to an investor. PKP Energetyka is the owner of 443 substations and 20 000 km of electrical lines in Poland.

1. In view of the planned sale of a critical element of Poland's rail infrastructure, does the Transport Commissioner intend to adopt a position on the Commission's procedure as regards authorising the takeover of PKP Energetyka by CVC?

2. Does the sale of a critical element of Poland's rail infrastructure not jeopardise the functioning of rail infrastructure as a whole?

3. Given that it would no longer be possible to exercise corporate governance over this critical element of Poland's rail infrastructure, would its sale not jeopardise Poland's ability to obtain EU funds for the modernisation and development of the country's rail network?