The era of autocracy in Polish politics is ending. I think the last 8 years have probably taught everyone in Poland the downsides of all power being concentrated in one hand. And I think it's good that we all learn something from what has been happening in Poland over the years, because it wasn't going well partly because instead of the natural mechanisms of parliamentary democracy, where ideas, concepts, and proposals are refined through debate and negotiation, we simply had a single decision-making center - stated Adrian Zandberg in "Trójka's Political Salon".

- Very promising and good. This is substantial progress. It's clear that these talks are moving at a very good pace, in a very good atmosphere. We are also finalizing talks on a coalition agreement, its substantive part - said Marcin Kierwiński in an interview with Dariusz Ociepa on Polsat News' "Graffiti".

Robert Biedroń is certainly energizing these talks, but there's no reason for us to hastily conclude all matters, especially personnel issues. The President has set a political calendar as such: it's November 13th, we still have a Sejm session where Prime Minister Morawiecki will submit his government's resignation, so these talks could theoretically last for a few more weeks, but we are already close to the finish line - stated Jan Grabiec in the program “Rozmowa Piaseckiego” on TVN24. I think we may still need a few hours, perhaps a few meetings and talks, or maybe not even that - he added.

There is a concept for such a coalition agreement that would encompass all the details, and I don't think this type of coalition agreement will be implemented. Although we are discussing many details, the governing program for the first days and months. I think it will be more of a declaration of directions of action, because it must be a universal solution – stated Jan Grabiec on TVN24.

- I wouldn't rule out solutions such as reaching a compromise regarding the division of the term, but the leaders themselves will decide on this, Szymon Hołownia and Włodzimierz Czarzasty, Donald Tusk, and of course Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz – stated Jan Grabiec on TVN24.

- Donald Tusk cares about women's participation in power, in the government, and in other functions, but who it will be and whether it will be in the Senate, the coming days will show - stated Jan Grabiec on TVN24.

- From our perspective, that was the starting point; a structure where the Sejm presidium and the government, especially the prime minister and deputy prime minister, would reflect the coalition's structure, seems the simplest. However, our partners' preferences and expectations are different, so we are yielding a bit to these ideas of our partners, our coalition allies. Therefore, there won't be full representation here, such as the Sejm Marshal from Civic Platform, or Civic Coalition, and three deputy marshals, or such a government structure - stated Jan Grabiec on TVN24.

- Given this coalition setup, it's difficult for me to imagine someone entirely outside the political world appearing at the Ministry of Finance and immediately being able to function fully synergistically with the entire government, but the decision here rests with the Prime Minister - stated Jan Grabiec on TVN24.

- We will be ready to form a government on November 14th; we don't need more time. I don't understand the president's expectations directed at us at all. The president's role is described in the Constitution. He is to assist in the parliamentary-cabinet system in forming a government. This is not the president's business, not the coalition agreement, nor the government's composition, in which, within the framework of the constitution, he is not bound by cooperation with the president. So, with respect to the head of state, this is not President Andrzej Duda's business. This is the business of the parliament and the government. There is no reason for the president to feel like some kind of patron of this government, especially since he comes from a different political background - stated Jan Grabiec on TVN24.

- I think we will still work very hard this week on these substantive issues, so it's not a perspective of this week [to show the coalition agreement], but we will try to finish this work as soon as possible - said Marcin Kierwiński in "Graffiti" Polsat News. - We definitely want to show this agreement very quickly, in order to end all speculation and the President's musings about who has the majority - he continued.

- This is indeed a topic [digitization] in which Krzysztof Gawkowski is strong, and I think this is a ministry that would suit him, and he would find his place and be a competent person to deal with this area. However, this is obviously not the only area, because Lewica has ambitions to deal with labor policy and social policy [...], construction [...] and education as well - said Anna Maria Żukowska in an interview with Robert Mazurek on RMF FM's "Morning Conversation".

"It could happen" - said Anna Maria Żukowska in an RMF FM interview, responding to the host's statement that Szymon Hołownia as Marshal of the Sejm would be the first instance since the AWS era where an individual without parliamentary experience would hold this position.

Donald Tusk knows perfectly well that we owe our electoral victory to high female mobilization. Please note that it was Civic Coalition that ensured 49% of women were on the lists. He knows perfectly well what his obligations are and who he won the election thanks to. Donald Tusk is doing everything today to ensure parity is maintained, and this topic also comes up in coalition talks. It is our mutual agreement that we will strive to have as many women as possible in the government, to bring about an absolute change – stated Barbara Nowacka in an interview with Bogdan Rymanowski on the program "Gość Radia Zet".

- Substantive issues, the future government's program, which formation will be responsible for which areas – yes, it will be public [in the coalition agreement], of course. We want to do this transparently, we promised this to Poles, and that's how we will do it - said Marcin Kierwiński in Polsat News's "Graffiti". - If you ask me whether there will be specific legislative projects – of course not. However, whether there will be goals of the new government, aspirations of the new government, what we want to do, how we want to restore the rule of law in Poland, how we want to bring Poland back to Europe – yes, these issues will be in this agreement - he continued.

- We are not discussing personnel, there will be time for that. Thank you for asking, as it's a rarity in the media world, one only reads about where they stand in line. Simply put, we are not discussing surnames; for now, the only surname today is Donald Tusk. Everything else will be the result of negotiations. For now, I am absolutely not making any plans because we need to adapt this to the coalition agreement. My personal ambitions were fulfilled on October 15th; I dreamed of defeating PiS - stated Barbara Nowacka on the program "Gość Radia Zet".

- Morawiecki and Duda claim that PiS will rule. Even their right-wing media don't show preparations for a government. This is a matter of political logic. President Andrzej Duda, as a figure of the PiS camp and the right that is crumbling today, must play with them until the end. Logically, if he were to appoint Tusk today, he would be seen by his own side as the reason for the absence of a Morawiecki government - stated Barbara Nowacka on the program "Gość Radia Zet".

- Roman Giertych will not be in the government. For now, Roman Giertych was not at the ceremony for the presentation of certificates of election; we'll see if he will be at the swearing-in. He has three months from the first sitting of the Sejm to take the parliamentary oath. According to the Sejm's regulations, if he does not do so within this time, it is treated as a refusal to take up the mandate, and that mandate is extinguished - Anna Maria Żukowska said on RMF FM. - I think it was a statement intended to call him to account [regarding Giertych as Attorney General]. No, he will not be the Attorney General. We'll see what his ambitions are and whether he will actually appear in Poland at all. [...] I think it was a rather deeply hidden mockery [saying that Giertych would be suitable as Attorney General] - she continued.

- This is a very probable scenario [rotation in the position of Sejm Marshal]. We want to adopt good standards, which are common in Western democracies. This solution has been in place in the European Parliament for many years, and I think it's an interesting option - said Marcin Kierwiński in the "Graffiti" program on Polsat News.

- You are asking me if this is the most probable scenario – it is one of the more probable scenarios. However, until the entire government configuration is finalized, the final decisions are still ahead of us - he emphasized.

- Lewica and Trzecia Droga have indeed declared their aspirations for the Marshal's position, or rather, Szymon Hołownia's party, and they are probably the most likely candidates for these roles. But as I said, today any speculation about whether it will be a specific person is premature - he added.

I understand you're referring to the fact that Donald Tusk is likely not the ideal prime minister for The Left. That's clear, it's obvious, but we know how to count and we hear declarations from Civic Platform, Third Way, and the Polish People's Party, who were previously skeptical about Donald Tusk's candidacy, but have now decided they want him to be prime minister – stated Adrian Zandberg in the "Trójka Political Salon".

- I think within a week or two, perhaps a week is too early, but two, definitely by December [there will be a coalition agreement]. I don't think [we will settle everything by the first Sejm session]. I think we will settle matters concerning the division of key ministries [...] plus a program declaration, which I think will still be supplemented - said Anna Maria Żukowska on RMF FM. - [The issue of abortion legalization] will be included in the disagreement protocol, which will be an annex to this coalition agreement. We will write down things there that, for now, as far as I know, we are putting in things we will fight for, regardless of whether it will be a government bill ultimately, or a parliamentary bill - she continued.

- We will see [how many deputy prime ministers there will be]. Depending on the government's structure, yes, of course - such a scenario [with only one] is also realistic - said Marcin Kierwiński on Polsat News' "Graffiti".

- No one is pressuring anyone. However, indeed, when it comes to the experience of Mr. President Kosiniak-Kamysz, he is naturally, as it were, predisposed to hold an important function in this government. He was a minister in Donald Tusk's government, he was an excellent minister, so it is also natural for me that he conditions his presence in this government with very serious influence on the government's policy - said Marcin Kierwiński in "Graffiti" Polsat News.

- We are certainly keen on having housing included [in the coalition agreement], the construction of housing for affordable rent [...], raises for the budget sector, solutions concerning labor law, meaning the strengthening of the National Labour Inspectorate [...], the issue of health, financing of healthcare, this is our goal [8% of GDP], of course not abruptly year on year, this goal is intended to be achieved by 2027, according to our assumptions - said Anna Maria Żukowska on RMF FM, when asked about "what Lewica cares about most, what Lewica will certainly not give up" in the coalition agreement.

We are not supporters of this solution [the 0% mortgage]. This is precisely why talks and negotiations are underway at the moment, with various sides presenting their positions. However, my assessment of the credit subsidy program remains stable. I have criticized the credit subsidy program introduced by PiS – stated Adrian Zandberg in "Salon polityczny Trójki".

- At the moment, there is already a 2% subsidized loan [...] and you can already observe what these loan subsidies are doing. All they do is increase housing prices and do not increase accessibility for those who need their first apartment, but rather for those who have surplus cash and buy these apartments to rent them out later - said Anna Maria Żukowska on RMF FM. - No [we will not agree to the 0% mortgage]. No [Lewica will definitely not agree to the 0% mortgage]. [...] We have never supported it and we will not support it, I think it is a bad solution - she continued.

- Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk is okay, and I think she will become Minister of Education - said Anna Maria Żukowska on RMF FM.

- I believe that for these difficult times, we need a statesman. Donald Tusk is such a statesman. So if you ask me - yes, I believe he is a prime minister for the entire term, perhaps much longer - said Marcin Kierwiński on Polsat News's "Graffiti". - It is not "being said" [that Donald Tusk wants to return to European politics], but that's how PiS politicians lie. Donald Tusk is a fulfilled politician in European politics. […] This type of insinuation, that Donald Tusk wants to return to Brussels right away, can only be spun by politicians who have gigantic complexes - someone like Błaszczak, Kaczyński, Morawiecki - he continued.

- I think [the Razem party] will be in the Left club. I believe they [will not form a separate circle] - said Anna Maria Żukowska on RMF FM.

- No one from PiS has approached me personally, but I have heard about such situations - said Marcin Kierwiński in Polsat News' "Graffiti". - It all depends on who we are talking about. However, as a rule, I tell you with full responsibility, this government has a majority, it has 248 votes in the Sejm. We don't need more - he continued. - I am a staunch opponent of such simple political transfers. If someone has served the PiS apparatus for many years, it is hard for me to imagine that they could now serve to rebuild democracy - he added.

- Probably in the very near future. Just as we looked in 2019, these acts were issued around November 5th, certainly within deadlines allowing for session preparation – said Małgorzata Paprocka in the program 'Poranek' on Siódma9.

- The situation is very specific because, of course, PiS won the elections, and the President heard declarations from the United Right representatives that they have a majority and are capable of forming a government. And gaining a vote of confidence. Subsequently, representatives of three committees, namely Civic Coalition (KO), Third Way (TD), and The Left, also presented their candidate for Prime Minister and also made such a declaration to the President. Without judging this, the President has taken note of these positions from the committees – stated Małgorzata Paprocka on Siódma9.

- The President, possessing this knowledge derived from these consultations, will, I repeat, make his decisions within the constitutional term – she added.

- An electoral coalition, if not concluded in the formula provided by the electoral code. That is, these three committees ran separately. Here, it must be remembered that we are talking about 10 parties, not three. They ran separately, they did not form an electoral coalition. At this moment, a coalition agreement has also not yet been concluded, and the formula of submitting 248 signatures would be a certain novelty. However, I think it should be clearly stated that all majorities are confirmed at one moment. Namely, during the vote in the Sejm chamber – said Małgorzata Paprocka in Siódma9.

- If a government were formed by today's opposition parties, the most natural step would be the so-called second constitutional step. That is, when the MPs indicate their candidate for prime minister – she continued.

- At this moment, no decision has been made public by the President. No candidate for prime minister has been designated, and therefore it is difficult for me to rule out any scenario. These consultations were treated by the President very seriously – she added.

President will certainly conduct political matters in the same way he has for the past 8 years of his presidency. The President’s views on many issues are clear and have been expressed, including through legal decisions he made. That is, which acts he signed, which he vetoed, which he sent to the Constitutional Tribunal. These naturally stem from the President’s statements, including his public pronouncements, so I believe there will be no surprises in many aspects. However, I warn against such scaremongering. Because we already see statements, or hear many politicians from today’s opposition, constantly talking about the President hindering some mythical reforms. The President approaches his duties very calmly and very prudently. He will make decisions on acts when they are delivered to him for a decision by the Marshal of the Sejm – stated Małgorzata Paprocka in Siódma9.

We are systematically increasing our production capacity in zero- and low-emission energy sources. The Baltic Power offshore wind farm has secured financing and a final investment decision, accompanied by the construction of an installation terminal in Świnoujście. We are also increasing our onshore wind energy capacity through a conditional agreement for the purchase of farms in Wielkopolska and West Pomerania - informs Orlen.

- PiS politicians spoke about reparations exclusively within Poland. If they mentioned it somewhere abroad, it was quietly, perhaps once, perhaps twice. […] They sent some note just to get it over with - said Jan Grabiec in an interview with Jacek Prusinowski on Radio Plus's "Sedno Sprawy" (The Core of the Matter). - We will certainly look for ways to ensure that Germany finances Poland's development not only through the European Union. [...] Claims regarding the coverage of losses related to World War II, the diplomacy of this government will certainly be able to obtain more effectively than the PiS government - he continued. - We will be able to make concrete claims and obtain concrete sums - declared the Civic Platform (PO) spokesperson.

The ORLEN Group has commenced the exploitation of new fields in Norway, which will provide an additional 0.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually, delivered through the Baltic Pipe:

Dzięki inwestycjom w obszarze wydobycia zwiększamy stabilność dostaw i bezpieczeństwo energetyczne Polski. Grupa ORLEN rozpoczęła eksploatację kolejnych złóż w Norwegii, które zapewnią dodatkowe 0,5 mld m3 gazu ziemnego rocznie, dostarczanych przez Baltic Pipe. Zwiększamy również… pic.twitter.com/8dT6cZRtos

— ORLEN (@GrupaORLEN) October 31, 2023

- The President is prolonging, or rather extending, this PiS agony, but at the first sitting of the Sejm, we will elect the Marshal of the Sejm, and they will have the support of all democratic majority groupings - Borys Budka said in a statement to TVN24. - We will announce names when the leaders have finalized everything. I am the last person who would want to speculate about anything in the media. Today, various options are on the table - he continued, when asked if it would be Szymon Hołownia. - All solutions are possible today, including the rotation of those leading the Sejm, modeled on the European Parliament - he went on to say.

- We have agreed with Tusk, Kosiniak-Kamysz, and Hołownia that until we finish our discussions, none of us will be giving interviews or sharing information. Once we have reached an agreement on everything, which is proceeding well, we will determine the manner of informing the public with an open heart and a smile on our faces - stated Włodzimierz Czarzasty during his address to the media.

- We are constantly meeting. Just as President Duda is constantly learning, we are constantly meeting. We saw each other today or are seeing each other. The time will come, we will inform everyone about it - stated Włodzimierz Czarzasty during a statement to the media.

- There are millions of interpreters of all events and informants about all events. I think four people know how it is and give us [time] - stated Włodzimierz Czarzasty during a media appearance.

- Do you remember? We will win, we will hold accountable, we will repair human wrongs and reconcile, and the first point has been settled thanks to you. Don't worry, you know well, and I know well. 248 is more than 194. And here's a brief update. The talks are going great, we are prepared to form a government. I can only say good things about the partners I am speaking with. But I have also missed you. Cabinets and talks are one thing, but I want to return to you. I want to honestly tell you everything that has happened in recent days and, of course, answer all your questions. I will be in Wrocław, in Jagodno, at 6:00 PM - said Donald Tusk in a recording published on social media.

Meldunek od serca. pic.twitter.com/Lrrk7T3KAC

— Donald Tusk (@donaldtusk) October 31, 2023

Thanks to the planned debut in Austria and the acquisition of 266 stations, ORLEN Group's retail network will be present in 7 Central European markets - Orlen informs.

Dzięki planowanemu debiutowi w Austrii i przejęciu 266 stacji, sieć detaliczna Grupy ORLEN będzie obecna już na 7 rynkach Europy Środkowej. Konsekwentnie rozwijamy formaty sprzedaży pozapaliwowej ORLEN StopCafe oraz sieć ogólnodostępnych punktów paliw alternatywnych: EV, CNG i… pic.twitter.com/RP1QpGJumZ

— ORLEN (@GrupaORLEN) October 31, 2023

- As an experienced MP, I would say there's no need to rush. I believe we should wait. Let the first path, which President Andrzej Duda already mentioned, that he will nominate a candidate on the 13th, be exhausted. If Mateusz Morawiecki tenders his government's resignation, he will then nominate him as a candidate for Prime Minister. So, this procedure, this path, must be exhausted, and this provides additional time to truly refine the coalition agreement and to make it public. I am in favour of the coalition agreement being a public agreement this time – stated Marek Sawicki in an interview with Beata Lubecka on Radio Zet.

I don't know, I don't think so. Such a system exists in Brussels, but it's not always followed. However, I'll say this: in every term, there have been changes of marshals, so whether it's rotational or a change – it doesn't make much difference. Because there might be a need to change the marshal, and then the entire coalition, the entire parliamentary majority, decides on that – Marek Sawicki said on Radio Zet.

- It's not the case that a debutant Speaker of the Sejm has to be worse than an experienced Speaker, or a Member of Parliament serving multiple terms. In my assessment, yes [Szymon Hołownia would cope well as Speaker of the Sejm]. All the more so because he is a person who, when it comes to media engagement, handles it excellently. And that is also one of those aspects. However, he has an entire bureau, an entire staff of the Chancellery of the Sejm, which prepares everything – stated Marek Sawicki on Radio Zet.

- Deputy Prime Minister for the economy. Head of the Economic Committee of the Council of Ministers, with infrastructure, with energy. I would rather see Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz in this role – said Marek Sawicki on Radio Zet.

- If [coalition party leaders] decide that this ministry should belong to Civic Coalition, then it is up to them to staff it. I believe that better candidates would be, for example, Kazimierz Plocke or Dorota Niedziela, but if it has to be Michał Kołodziejczak – stated Marek Sawicki on Radio Zet.

- No, I will not support [the abortion liberalization bill], but I am informing Ms. Barbara Nowacka that even if a majority is found in the Sejm. Because I don't rule out that a majority for liberalization might be found in the Sejm at this moment. The President will not sign it, and that's why, from the very beginning of the campaign. From the very beginning of the coalition agreement within the Third Way. We said that the best step and the fastest method for liberalization after the ruling of Julia Przyłębska's tribunal is the issue of restoring the abortion compromise. Because in my assessment, the President will sign such a law and then call a referendum. And I want to honestly say here on Radio Zet that if citizens vote for liberalization in a referendum, I, as a Member of Parliament, will also vote for it – said Marek Sawicki on Radio Zet.

- I don't know that [when the coalition agreement will be signed]. I know that talks were held today between the leaders of the four main political groups. They will continue on Thursday and Friday, so they might create something by Monday, but nobody knows for sure - said Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski in an interview with Bogdan Rymanowski on Polsat News' "Gość Wydarzeń". - For talks to go brilliantly, one should say nothing. Confidential negotiations are confidential, that's their nature, not that - with all due respect to the media and viewers - everything has to be immediately conveyed to the public - he stated.

- Some say it's a good idea, some say it's not a good idea [rotating Marshal of the Sejm]. All possible solutions that are in line with the law and may be unconventional should be considered, if they help in negotiations to create a coalition - said Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski in "Gość Wydarzeń" on Polsat News. - If the leaders decide so, I will not oppose it. […] If it helps create a coalition, then I am for it - he added.

- This is the first I'm hearing of such an idea even emerging. I have never heard that President Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz wants to oversee the Ministry of National Defense, but if he has such an idea, I will not oppose it - said Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski on "Gość Wydarzeń" (Guest of Events) on Polsat News. - President Kosiniak-Kamysz is an exceptionally capable manager, he is also a person who understands various viewpoints and knows how to persuade others to his own. I think he would be a good head of any ministry - he continued.

- I would feel extremely uncomfortable forming a government with Mr. Bąkiewicz, who, thank God, did not get into the Sejm, and therefore can represent the street, and perhaps even foreign interests, but not Polish citizens - said Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski in "Gość Wydarzeń" on Polsat News, referring to the words of Robert Bąkiewicz, who appealed for the formation of a government for the defense of Polish independence, composed of PiS, PSL, and Konfederacja.

- If Hamas wants to slaughter, kill, murder all Jews, then I don't see an option for negotiations with them after October 7th, when Hamas committed these murderous acts. What's more, Hamas's support in the Gaza Strip is so high that I don't really see how to distinguish a combatant or terrorist from Hamas and the civilians who support Hamas - said Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski in "Gość Wydarzeń" on Polsat News.

- We lived with Jews for almost a thousand years on our territory. They are our brothers, as John Paul II called them, elder brothers in faith. Yes, we have cultural and historical ties, and we are also on the side of human rights and democracy. We are not for murdering Jews simply because they are Jews. [...] We must show solidarity with the State of Israel – said Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski in “Gość Wydarzeń” on Polsat News.

- For example, for matters of justice, for restoring constitutional order in Poland, for example, for internal affairs, meaning the Ministry of Interior, for depoliticizing the police, for returning the police to Polish citizens - said Marcin Kierwiński in an interview with Monika Olejnik on TVN24's "Kropka nad i" [Dot over the i], responding to a question about what the Civic Coalition wants to take responsibility for in the new government.

- This is the most probable scenario for today [rotational Sejm Marshal], but it's not a matter of appetites [...] it's rather a matter of responsibility, that the leaders of all parties forming this coalition want to take responsibility for what is happening both in the government and in the Sejm [...]. We will not quarrel over this, we will agree on this [whether Hołownia or Czarzasty will be Sejm Marshal first] – said Marcin Kierwiński on TVN24.

- We will do everything, and this was also Donald Tusk's declaration, to form this government. We do not want such a Byzantine government as PiS had, so it is unlikely to have three deputy prime ministers; rather, it will be a smaller number of deputy prime ministers [...] a lot also depends on the structure, on which grouping takes responsibility for which area, and what the arrangement is in the Sejm Presidium - said Marcin Kierwiński on TVN24.

- Regarding the issue of women's rights: yes, they will be included in the coalition agreement. I don't know if every provision will be as specific as everyone might expect, but yes, these matters will be very important in the work of the future government and will be included in the coalition agreement [...]. We know we have differences with Trzecia Droga in this regard, mainly with the Polish People's Party, but we will forge a position that will end women's hell - said Marcin Kierwiński on TVN24.

- That's why people voted for us, so we could win against PiS and form a joint, coalition government. And this government will be formed, regardless of what we hear on TVP Info, or what Prime Minister Morawiecki or President Duda say, this government will be formed. [...] Let's really approach this reasonably. Coalitions like the future coalition government's agreement aren't made in a single day. It's not a simple 'here you go'. We want to do this right - said Anna Maria Żukowska on TVN24.

PARTNERSHIP TEXT

The ORLEN Group concluded the third quarter of 2023 with an operating profit EBITDA according to LIFO of PLN 8.2 billion and a net profit of PLN 3.5 billion. This means that cumulatively after nine months of this year, the concern's operating profit reached PLN 34 billion, and its net profit exceeded PLN 17 billion. In the third quarter, despite an unfavorable macroeconomic environment, the refining segment had a positive impact on the results, generating an operating profit EBITDA LIFO of PLN 1.9 billion. Conversely, the petrochemical segment burdened the results due to lower demand for such products. In the third quarter, ORLEN increased sales volumes in the retail segment, which grew by 9% (year-on-year) in the Polish market alone. The concern maintained its financial indicators at a safe level, while allocating PLN 20.4 billion to investments over the nine months of this year.

“The results we achieved in the first three quarters of this year are in line with the growth outlook assumed in the strategy and show that we have correctly identified and are pursuing our development directions. We made the decision to enter new markets, and this is bringing tangible results. Thanks to the implemented mergers, we have seen a very significant increase in retail sales volumes, primarily in the Czech Republic, from which we supply fuel to our new stations in Hungary and Slovakia. Building a strong, diversified concern has given us the ability to respond flexibly to market challenges and maintain financial stability, despite a weaker macroeconomic environment. This, in turn, allows us to implement the largest investment program in the concern's history, in line with the strategy. In the nine months of this year alone, we have allocated over PLN 20 billion to investments. This is a record amount that will increase significantly by the end of the fourth quarter. We are investing because it strengthens our global position and attractiveness in building business partnerships, especially in the energy and extraction sectors. This, in turn, enhances the concern's value for Shareholders,” says Daniel Obajtek, CEO of ORLEN.

In the third quarter of 2023, the ORLEN Group generated:
Revenue: PLN 75.4 billion

EBITDA LIFO: PLN 8.2 billion

Net profit: PLN 3.5 billion

In the past quarter, the ORLEN Group consistently pursued strategic transformation projects that build long-term company value. Energy remained one of the key investment areas, in line with the strategy. This was related, among other things, to the commencement of construction of the first Polish offshore wind farm, Baltic Power. The investment is accompanied by the construction of an installation terminal in Świnoujście. As part of the development of onshore renewable energy, the concern concluded a conditional agreement for the purchase of additional wind farms with a total capacity of 60MW, located in Wielkopolska and Western Pomerania.

As part of building new business lines, ORLEN signed an agreement with Horisont Energi for potential cooperation on one of the most advanced CO2 storage projects on the Norwegian Shelf. An agreement on cooperation with Yokogawa Europe was also signed concerning the development of an integrated system for the production of synthetic fuels, which represent an opportunity for the Polish aviation sector to achieve emission neutrality.

In turn, as part of the development of biofuels, a UCO FAME installation was launched in Trzebinia for the production of second-generation biocomponents from used cooking oils. This pro-ecological investment is part of the ORLEN Group's strategy in the biofuel sector, enabling the replacement of fossil fuels with fuels produced from waste materials. Esters produced in the UCO FAME installation exhibit 83% lower emissions compared to traditional diesel fuel. ORLEN also signed an agreement for the construction of a modern oil pressing plant in Kętrzyn, which will process 500,000 tons of rapeseed and produce 200,000 tons of oil annually for the production of low-emission biofuels. In Poznań, the concern began testing its first publicly accessible hydrogen refueling station in Poland, and the first hydrogen locomotive joined the ORLEN railway fleet.

In the retail segment, the most significant event was the European Commission's decision allowing the acquisition of 266 petrol stations in Austria. As part of the standardization of the European ORLEN brand, the rebranding of 90 stations in Slovakia was completed, and another stage of rebranding began in Germany, under which 100 stations will operate under the ORLEN banner by the beginning of 2024.

As part of the development of the hydrocarbon extraction business, the exploitation of the Tommeliten Alpha field by PGNiG Upstream Norway began. This will provide the concern with an additional 0.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually, which will be delivered to the country via the Baltic Pipe gas pipeline.

The concern also initiated the process of taking control of the Transit Gas Pipeline System. The largest investment in domestic gas storage began with the expansion of the Underground Gas Storage facility in Wierzchowice, as well as reserved regasification capacity in the floating gas terminal planned for 2028 in the Bay of Gdańsk. Two more modern gas carriers, Święta Barbara and Ignacy Łukasiewicz, joined the ORLEN fleet.

A conditional agreement was also signed for the purchase of shares in ENERGOP, a company that produces pipelines, among others, for the refining and petrochemical sectors. The transaction will increase the ORLEN Group's potential in implementing industrial investments, where technologically advanced pipelines are an important element.

The strength of the combined ORLEN Group was confirmed by the list of the 500 largest companies worldwide by revenue, published in August this year by the American magazine "Fortune". ORLEN achieved a historic advancement of 208 positions. As the largest company in this part of Europe, it was also among the top five fastest-growing enterprises. Currently, the ORLEN Group is ranked 216th in this prestigious ranking.

While allocating billions of zlotys to investments, the concern simultaneously reduced its debt by (-) PLN 6.1 billion (year-on-year) in the third quarter of this year, and the net debt to operating EBITDA ratio stood at (-) 0.08x. As a result of the successfully completed mergers with Grupa LOTOS and PGNiG and strong financial foundations, ORLEN maintained its highest-ever credit ratings – A3 awarded by Moody's Investors Service and "BBB+" awarded by Fitch Ratings.

The good and stable financial situation of the ORLEN Group and the consistent pursuit of business goals in all areas of operation were reflected in the payment of a dividend for 2022 at a record level recommended by the company's Management Board – PLN 5.5 per share. As a result, on August 31st this year, the concern paid its Shareholders nearly PLN 6.4 billion.

The refining segment generated an EBITDA LIFO of PLN 1.9 billion. Of this, PLN 221 million is the result of the acquired LOTOS Group. The macroeconomic environment negatively impacted the results of this segment, including: changes in crude oil processing structure, related to the move away from Russian raw material, which translated into a decrease in the differential by (-) USD 8.4/bbl (year-on-year), negative impact of hedging transactions, and the strengthening of the zloty against the dollar. ORLEN Group refineries operated at 94% capacity, processing 10 million tons of crude oil. The concern recorded a decrease in sales of (-) 2% (year-on-year), with higher sales of gasoline by 10% and JET aviation fuel by 19%, while diesel fuel sales decreased by (-) 5%, LPG by (-) 1%, and COO by (-) 11%. In Poland, sales were lower by (-) 7%, in the Czech Republic by (-) 18%, and in Lithuania by 37%.

The ORLEN Group will allocate nearly PLN 14 billion this year to freezing gas prices, including for households and vulnerable entities. Partly for this reason, the extraction segment recorded a result of (-) PLN 212 million in the third quarter of this year. Significant impact was also caused by falling hydrocarbon prices, including gas by over (-) 80% (year-on-year) and oil by (-) 14% (year-on-year). Average crude oil and gas production in the third quarter, mainly in Poland and Norway, amounted to approximately 155 thousand boe/d.

Due to the unfavorable macroeconomic environment, including lower demand for petrochemical products, the petrochemical segment achieved an EBITDA LIFO of (-) PLN 136 million in the third quarter of this year. However, according to forecasts, by 2030, the market for petrochemicals and plastics will grow along with economic growth cycles, which is why investments in the development of assets in this segment continue, especially in the area of modern petrochemicals, including recycling.

The energy segment generated EBITDA of over PLN 1.3 billion in the third quarter of 2023, of which PLN 837 million is the result of the acquired Energa Group and PGNiG Group. During this period, over 60% of energy was produced from renewable sources and in gas-fired units. Total production in the ORLEN Group was 2.8 TWh of electricity and 12.9 PJ of heat.
The retail segment achieved an EBITDA of PLN 601 million in the third quarter of 2023. This was possible thanks to a 10% increase in sales during this period, including gasoline sales up by 9%, diesel fuel by 12%, and LPG by 4%. The highest sales growth was recorded in the Czech Republic – by 61%, in Poland by 9%, and in Lithuania by 6%, with a decrease in Germany by (-) 4%.
The ORLEN Group's retail network increased by 255 stations (year-on-year) to 3153, mainly in Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia, as a result of the implementation of remedies within the scope of the LOTOS Group acquisition, additionally in Slovakia as a result of the launch and rebranding of self-service stations acquired from a local network, and in Germany as a result of the launch of self-service stations acquired from OMV. The concern also obtained the European Commission's approval for the acquisition of 266 stations in Austria and is currently finalizing this transaction. The number of non-fuel points of sale also increased by 273 (year-on-year), totaling 2596, including: 1912 in Poland, 342 in the Czech Republic, 190 in Germany, 72 in Hungary, 49 in Slovakia, and 30 in Lithuania. ORLEN is also dynamically developing its network of alternative fuel refueling stations. Currently, 701 such stations are available to customers, including: 532 in Poland, 142 in the Czech Republic, 18 in Germany, and 9 in Hungary. The concern is also investing in the courier services segment, as a result of which "ORLEN parcel" can now be sent and collected at over 9.6 thousand points throughout Poland.

As a result of the merger with PGNiG Group, the gas segment recorded an EBITDA of PLN 5.2 billion in the third quarter. Gas imports to Poland amounted to 43.8 TWh during this period, with LNG accounting for 41%. 15 ships were unloaded at the LNG terminal in Świnoujście. At the end of September, gas storage reserves in the ORLEN Group stood at 36.6 TWh, and gas storage levels in Poland reached 99%. As part of supporting Polish entrepreneurs, the concern lowered gas prices for business customers, which fell in September to PLN 201/MWh.