Chances and Threats of Hard Coal Mining Development in Poland – The Results of Experts Research/Szanse I Zagrożenia Dla Rozwoju Górnictwa Węgla Kamiennego W Polsce – Wyniki Badań Eksperckich

Abstract

Abstract The actual situation of hard coal mining in Poland has been presented. In particular, these factors, which have impact on the competiveness of mining sector were highlighted and need of its improving has been stressed. Outlining present situation of hard coal mining an attention was paid to its specific threats. The primary analytical material is based on the results of questionnaire conducted among 92 specialists and experts from the mining sector. The questions were related to chances and threats for development of hard coal mining in Poland. The factors determining them were grouped in such domains as economy, technology, geology, social and law aspects. Moreover, the special attention was paid to the problem of increasing and high costs of coal production which constitute significant threat for the financial and economic situation of the mining enterprises. Also the adverse influence of these high cost on the competitiveness of Polish hard coal with other world producers and with other energy carriers was emphasized. The conclusions summarize the achieved results of analysis.