The fourth edition of the Decarb Cities conference concluded with renewed optimism, critical debate, and tangible momentum for the decarbonization of European urban heating and cooling. Held in the historic city of Krakow, the two-day event convened over 40 speakers from local governments, industry, academia, and NGOs to chart a practical path forward in the shift to clean, efficient energy systems.
Under the banner “Decarbonisation through Innovation,” the event showcased the critical role of heat pumps, regulatory frameworks, financing mechanisms, and local governance in achieving EU climate targets. Sessions ranged from the implications of rising electricity prices on heat pump adoption in Poland to successful installer training models across Europe, and the need for smarter, scalable, and citizen-focused heating solutions.
Addressing real-world challenges
During the opening panel, moderated by a Qvantum representative, city officials Grzegorz Grzybczyk and Maciej Riemer underscored that the core barriers are not technological but social and administrative. “How do we attract end-consumers to want the change?” they asked, emphasizing the need for accessible subsidies and community-based engagement strategies such as one-stop shops. Paweł Lachman reinforced the message: the technology is ready, now systems and support must follow.
This sentiment was echoed throughout the programme, which featured an interactive World Café, a site visit to a ground-source heat pump installation as seen in the image below, and sessions on policy, air quality, and urban retrofit strategies.
Industry vision and innovation
For Qvantum International, a silver sponsor and key participant, the event strongly aligned with its mission of “Powering Europe’s Climate-Neutral Cities.” Their decentralized heat pump systems, designed to be invisible and plug-and-play, are seen as vital infrastructure for dense urban areas.
“This is what we mean by Modern Systems Innovation,” their spokesperson said. “Built for urban density, connected to rooftop PV and ambient temperature networks, and offering smart, silent comfort; the heat transition is a systems choice we can make today.”
Spotlight on the Heat Pump Centre
Also actively engaging at the event was the Heat Pump Centre, the central information activity of the IEA Technology Collaboration Programme on Heat Pumping Technologies (HPT TCP). The Centre’s team participated enthusiastically in networking breaks and panel discussions, sharing insights and exploring collaboration opportunities.
“We are thrilled to be here at Decarb Cities 2025,” they announced. “It is inspiring to be among leading experts, city leaders, and policymakers who are shaping the future of decarbonized urban heating and cooling.” Their presence underscored the Centre’s commitment to international knowledge exchange and its support for innovative, scalable heat pump solutions.
Insights from Poland and beyond
Poland’s own heat pump story was both a cautionary tale and a case for targeted reform. Despite having 745,000 units in operation, only 5% of homes use heat pumps, and sales dropped by 35% in 2024. This was attributed to disruptive subsidy policies and soaring electricity prices. EHPA’s Director General, Paul Kenny, stressed the importance of trained installers and quality control, citing models from Germany, Ireland, and the UK.
Polish manufacturer Galmet also weighed in, emphasizing that their daily work, including heat pumps, storage systems, and solar thermal solutions, directly addresses the growing needs of the heating market. “It was not an academic discussion,” they noted, “but specific talks about implementing real solutions, here and now.”
Forward momentum
Backed by the European Heat Pump Association (EHPA), PORT PC, the City of Krakow, and the Polish EU Presidency, Decarb Cities 2025 was not just a conference; it was a rallying point for action.
As the programme concluded with a gala dinner in Krakow’s city hall, the message was clear: the technologies are here, the know-how is growing, and cities are key actors in Europe’s clean heat transition.
For those who missed it, EHPA has already announced its next events, including its 25th Anniversary Celebration on June 3 and the Heat Pump Forum in Brussels on 23–24 September.