History

The Decoration for Merit in the Energy Industry was established by the Council of Ministers in 1998 as a replacement for the Decoration for Merit in the Energy Industry that was awarded in the Polish People’s Republic. It was later amended in 2001 and is currently administered by the Minister of the Economy. It is awarded to employees in the Polish energy sector as well as other Polish citizens in recognition of outstanding contributions to research, construction, and the development and implementation of new technology. It may also be awarded to foreigners in recognition of meritorious contributions to the Polish energy sector.

There are two versions of the Decoration that differ in design. Both feature an obverse inscription that can be translated to "Merit to Energy," but they differ in spelling. The second version features additional reverse initials that stand for "Rzeczpospolita Polska" (Republic of Poland).

See also the Decoration for Merit in the Energy Industry (POL554) in the Medals & Decorations of the Polish People's Republic (1944-1989).