Poland’s parliament has approved a landmark government bill aimed at easing the country’s transition away from coal. The new legislation facilitates the closure of coal mines, introduces financial support for displaced miners, and promotes the redevelopment of former mining areas. The measure, which gained strong backing from Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s ruling coalition, is designed to support the country’s shift to cleaner energy sources while mitigating the impact on coal-mining communities.
The bill, which will allow mining companies to close operations with state-backed financial support, is part of Poland’s broader energy transition plan. Under the legislation, coal mines can transfer their assets to local authorities or state entities for redevelopment projects, creating new opportunities for investment, revitalization, and infrastructure construction in former mining regions. In addition to mine closures, the bill provides protective benefits for workers, including severance payments of up to 170,000 zloty (€40,000) for those losing their jobs.
The government aims to phase out thermal coal mining entirely by 2049, with an initial target of closing five mines within the next decade. The bill received broad support from MPs within the ruling coalition, with 241 votes in favor and just six against. However, the far-right opposition parties abstained from voting, with some critics arguing that the bill does not adequately provide alternatives to coal for affected communities.
Poland remains Europe’s most coal-dependent nation, with coal accounting for 57% of its power generation in 2024. The transition away from coal has raised concerns, particularly in the Silesian-Dąbrowa region, home to many of the country’s coal mines. Despite this, the government has emphasised that the bill will help ensure a “just transition” for miners and stimulate new investment in coal regions.
The legislation now heads to Poland’s Senate for approval before reaching President Karol Nawrocki’s desk for signing into law. While Nawrocki has previously voiced strong support for the coal industry, it remains to be seen whether he will sign the bill or veto it.
