On November 24, 2022, an extraordinary meeting of European Union energy ministers was held in Brussels to address the difficult topic of the energy crisis. The meeting, co-organized by the European Commission and the Council of the EU, focused on discussing and identifying structural problems in the energy sector that affect all member states. The ministers also discussed energy policy goals at the European and national levels and innovative solutions for improving energy security and environmental protection. The discussion also touched on the latest technologies, such as renewable energy sources and energy storage. These initiatives are expected to help the transition to a decentralized energy system, which will be more consumer-based and enabled by new technologies.
Polish coal market
Poland’s coal market is highly diversified, and demand for the commodity remains strong. The main coal producers are the mines of Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa and the Polish Mining Group. Mining takes place mainly in open-pit and underground mines. The reserves of lignite and hard coal are estimated at about 18 billion tons, which is more than half of the world’s total reserves of this resource. Poland’s consumption is very large at around 40 million tons per year, giving it a leading position in Central and Eastern Europe in this regard. Poland is also an important supplier to other European countries, selling approx. 30 million tons a year to Germany, France and the Czech Republic.
Will new European Union regulations mean the closure of mines?
Will new European Union regulations mean the closure of many mines across Europe? All indications are that it will. For years, the EU’s policy on coal mining has been pro-environment, resulting in a slow reduction in such activity. Now, however, the EU has decided to end mining activities altogether and focus on other industries. Many miners are facing unemployment, and the closure of mines will have a significant impact on local society and the state’s economy.
Poll: Should Poland increase investment in coal mining?
The poll on whether Poland should increase investment in coal mining was very complicated. On the one hand, Poland’s coal mining industry is an important part of the Polish economy and supplies huge amounts of electricity. However, globally, more and more people believe that burning coal has a negative impact on our environment.
A survey conducted by the CBOS research agency found that more than half of respondents rejected the idea of increasing investment in coal mining. In contrast, 35% of respondents believe that we should continue to develop the industry and invest more in renewable energy technology. The results of this poll show how difficult it is to decide whether or not to invest in the mining sector in Poland.
What do you guys think?