Poland’s government is preparing new policy measures for the coal mining sector as it seeks to balance economic viability with the country’s ongoing energy transition, according to Deputy Minister of State Assets Grzegorz Wrona.
In an interview with PAP Biznes, Wrona said the Ministry of State Assets and the Ministry of Energy are working on a draft “social agreement” aimed at defining a broader pact between society and the mining industry, rather than a traditional agreement between employers and trade unions.
The initiative is intended to ensure that coal mining operations remain profitable and sustainable while continuing to support Poland’s electricity generation and industrial development. Wrona emphasised that coal still plays a key role in the country’s energy mix, even as Poland faces growing pressure to meet European climate and regulatory requirements.
Government officials are examining options that could improve the profitability of the sector, including initiatives focused on coal processing and value-added uses of the resource. According to Wrona, such approaches could allow the industry to remain economically viable without driving up electricity prices.
The deputy minister acknowledged the complexity of managing the transition, noting that Poland must simultaneously address decarbonisation goals and maintain energy security.
Industry representatives have also raised concerns about current support mechanisms. Bogdanka CEO Zbigniew Stopa recently stated that some domestically produced thermal coal is being sold below extraction cost due to subsidy programmes, placing companies that do not receive state support at a competitive disadvantage.
Wrona echoed criticism of the subsidy system, arguing that policies should prioritise mining operations that are economically viable, safe and capable of meeting market demand. He highlighted Bogdanka, along with certain mines in Lesser Poland and Silesia, as examples of operations with strong long-term potential.
Under Poland’s existing legislation governing hard coal mining, certain companies receive state subsidies to reduce production capacity as part of restructuring efforts. These include major mining groups PGG and PKW, as well as Weglokoks Kraj, whose last mine ceased production at the end of 2025.
The government’s ongoing policy discussions aim to identify a sustainable framework for the sector while addressing concerns about economic competitiveness, employment and regional development in mining areas.
