Regional rail carriers from across Poland could submit applications to CUPT for funding to purchase trains using KPO funds. The institution has now updated the ranking list, and the applications submitted by Koleje Dolnośląskie were once again rated very highly. Among other things, the carrier will receive funding to purchase 10 Elf 2 electric multiple units (EMUs).
New rolling stock and investment potential
The funding currently awarded, amounting to PLN 124 million 577 thousand, covers the purchase of rolling stock manufactured by the Bydgoszcz-based company PESA. This is another positively assessed application for the purchase of ten five-car trainsets from this manufacturer. “This is very good news from the Centre for EU Transport Projects. It is worth noting that we applied for 50% of the cost of purchasing the EMUs. The funds obtained will allow us to increase the number of connections and open up new routes. I do not hide the fact that, as KD, we will do everything to obtain funding in the full amount requested, which would ultimately cover the cost of purchasing five vehicles,” says Damian Stawikowski, president of Koleje Dolnośląskie.
It is worth emphasising that Koleje Dolnośląskie is a carrier whose applications were approved and received full funding from the entire planned KPO pool, amounting to PLN 2.78 billion.
Railway development and combating transport exclusion
For years, Lower Silesia has consistently focused on developing rail transport. It not only regularly invests in new rolling stock and revitalises closed lines, but also opens up new routes, such as the Wrocław–Zielona Góra connection launched in December 2024. In 2025, the carrier plans to cover 15 million kilometres by rail. These kilometres mean more pairs of connections on many lines, as well as shorter travel times—mainly to towns located in the Kłodzko Valley.
“We invest in rail at every level, and as the Marshal’s Office we are restoring train services to places affected by transport exclusion and by last year’s floods. New investments will make it possible to significantly speed up the process while also serving a growing number of passengers. This is an important step in strengthening the role of rail in the region,” says Michał Rado, Deputy Marshal of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship responsible for railways.
The Centre for EU Transport Projects is subordinate to the minister responsible for transport and manages funds from the European Union intended to support infrastructure investments, including in the field of rail transport. European KPO funds will mainly be used to refinance rolling-stock purchases. Funding may also be provided to carriers such as KD, which have invested in new rolling stock using their own funds or under a loan agreement.
Last year, the Lower Silesian carrier signed an agreement with PKO BP to purchase 10 modern Elf II electric multiple units. Until 29 August this year, KD still has the option, as part of a single order, to exercise the so-called option right and purchase a further 10 of the vehicles mentioned above.