Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa (JSW), the European Union’s largest producer of coking coal, has completed a major investment project at its Pniówek mine, finalizing the deepening of shaft III to a depth of 1053 meters and commissioning a new operational horizon at the 1000-meter level. The company announced the milestone in a press release issued in December.
The project involved extending shaft III from its previous depth of 856 meters and modernizing the hoisting installations in both the eastern and western sections to service the new horizon. Work on the project began in 2020 and was carried out under full operating conditions by a consortium comprising PBSz SA and PPG ROW-JAS.
According to mine officials, the deepening significantly improves occupational safety, transport logistics, and working conditions for miners. Shaft III, with a diameter of 7.5 meters, performs key ventilation and transport functions, including air extraction, personnel transport, and material handling. Following completion of the project, the shaft now serves three operational levels: 705, 830, and the newly commissioned 1000 level, which has become the mine’s primary horizon. Around 60% of employees now begin their shifts at this level.
The launch of the 1000 level has allowed the mine to discontinue material transport from the 830 level, directly improving safety and productivity. A new three-deck cage capable of carrying up to 78 people has been installed, while upgraded hoisting machines and new ropes enable the handling of heavier loads. The ventilation system has also been enhanced as part of the investment.
Mine representatives described the project as a critical step for long-term operations. Management noted that deepening the shaft while maintaining production at the 705 and 830 levels was particularly challenging, requiring the use of an artificial bottom to ensure uninterrupted and safe operations.
The completion of shaft III comes as JSW moves forward with broader strategic measures. In October 2025, the company announced the start of preparatory work for a large-scale business restructuring aimed at improving liquidity and securing financial stability in the short and medium term.
