IFC Partners with Bank Pekao to Boost Financing for Green and Blue Projects in Poland

· Strategic partnership to strengthen Bank Pekao's climate finance portfolio

· Financing to support projects in clean energy, sustainable transport, and water efficiency

Warsaw, Poland, September 9, 2025-International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, and Bank Pekao S.A. (Bank Pekao), Poland's second-largest bank, have launched the first step in a long-term partnership, under which IFC is considering investing up to $250 million in a series of bonds to be issued by Bank Pekao. The potential investments, subject to commercial terms, relevant corporate approvals and market conditions, would strengthen the bank's financing capacity and contribute to the resilience of Poland's banking sector, while supporting sustainability objectives.

The proceeds will be fully earmarked for green projects, with a portion directed to blue finance such as improving water efficiency. IFC's involvement will help Bank Pekao grow its climate portfolio and expand access to financing for Polish companies, supporting projects in energy-efficient transport and buildings, sustainable water use and wastewater management.

"At Bank Pekao we are proud to support Polish companies in their green transition. This partnership with IFC allows us to channel significant resources into projects that reduce negative impact on the climate, improve water management efficiency, and accelerate Poland's journey toward a sustainable future," said Dagmara Wojnar, Vice President of the Management Board, Bank Pekao S.A.

"Investing in blue and green finance is not only about the environment, but also about strengthening the competitiveness of our clients. By financing innovative projects in clean energy and water efficiency, we help businesses grow in a way that benefits the entire economy," said Robert Sochacki, Vice President of the Management Board, Bank Pekao S.A.

Poland has set ambitious targets to transform its energy mix, with plans to significantly reduce its reliance on coal-currently the source of 60 percent of its electricity. Achieving this transition is expected to require $449 billion in investment by 2050, more than half of the country's 2023 GDP, with a substantial share expected from the private sector. At present, green finance accounts for around 8 percent of Bank Pekao's lending, pointing to significant opportunities for growth. IFC is working alongside Poland's private sector to help mobilize the investment needed for the country to realize its energy transition ambitions.

"This landmark cooperation supports one of Poland's key priorities: strengthening the resilience of its banking sector," said Ines Rocha, IFC Division Director for Europe. "By partnering with a systemically important bank like Pekao, we can help unlock capital that reinforces financial stability while also generating positive environmental impact."

IFC has been supporting private sector development in Poland for over 30 years. In fiscal years 2024 and 2025, IFC invested and mobilized $1.8 billion, fostering innovation, accelerating the sustainable transition, and expanding access to capital for firms.