Czechia will close its last coal mine at the end of January, while Poland keeps its mines open until 2049, despite the energy transition.

Czechia is preparing to close, at the end of January, its last coal mine, CSM in Stonava, in the context of declining demand and the European energy transition. The state company OKD, which is in liquidation, had to extend its operations due to rising energy prices, but now extraction costs have become prohibitive. Coal mining in the Ostrava region began in the 18th century, transforming the area into an industrial center, but after the collapse of communism, the industry suffered a drastic decline.

Currently, OKD is facing a decrease in production and personnel, and 1,550 employees will be laid off soon. The region benefits from European funds for a just transition, but the mining legacy leaves environmental issues. In contrast, Poland continues to exploit coal, promising the operation of mines until 2049, while Czechia is moving towards new investments and sustainable projects, such as battery parks and methane power plants.