As global coal production continues to grow, Poland faces a critical juncture in its mining policies, with experts advocating for a reevaluation of the country’s approach to the coal industry. According to a recent article in Dziennik Gazeta Prawna, Poland's coal mining sector has been experiencing a steady decline, with 44 million tons extracted in 2024, down from 48.4 million tons the previous year and a significant drop from 72.5 million tons a decade ago. This trend aligns with the national energy policy aimed at reducing coal's share in the energy mix.
Since the 1990s, Poland has seen an average annual decline of 2.7 million tons in domestic coal production. Meanwhile, global leaders in coal, such as China, India, and Indonesia, have been ramping up their extraction capacities. In fact, over 50 percent of the world’s coal supply now comes from Chinese and Indian production. This shift has been mirrored in the United States, where former President Donald Trump encouraged similar growth in the mining sector.
Paweł Bogacz from the AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow highlighted that coal remains the cheapest stable fuel available, making it an attractive option for both developing and developed nations eager to sustain growth. He anticipates increased coal extraction in Australia and South Africa, noting that two new mines have recently opened in those regions.
Despite the global trend towards increased coal production, the Polish government has expressed a diminishing sentiment towards the industry. In a 2024 interview, Minister of Industry Marzena Czarnecka described the state of Polish mining as "tragic," asserting that the country is "drowning in coal." She has committed to honoring the mine closure schedule established during the previous PiS government, which mandates that the last mine will close by 2049.
The financial implications of continuing coal production in Poland are stark. The country currently subsidizes coal at a rate of 24 million PLN daily, which amounts to approximately 9 billion PLN for the year 2025. The mining sector reported a staggering loss of 11 billion PLN in 2024, equating to daily losses of around 30 million PLN. Wages alone account for 33.5 percent of mining companies' costs, placing further strain on an already struggling industry.
Experts are urging a reconsideration of the current mining strategy, suggesting that the government should not only adhere to its closure plans but also adapt to the changing global landscape. Bogacz pointed out that the energy market has shifted significantly since the decision to phase out coal mines was made, indicating that a reevaluation is necessary to ensure Poland's energy security.
As the debate continues, the future of coal mining in Poland remains uncertain. While the government is committed to reducing reliance on coal, the economic realities and global trends may necessitate a more flexible approach. As the world moves towards cleaner energy sources, Poland must navigate the delicate balance between economic viability and environmental responsibility.
In conclusion, Poland stands at a crossroads regarding its coal mining policies. With experts advocating for a revision of the current approach, the government must weigh the economic implications against the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions. The path forward will require careful consideration of both domestic needs and global trends in energy production.
