Transforming coal mining areas: diversifying industry, revitalisation, and clean energy transition

Bytom, a city in Silesia (PL), hosted a productive meeting between regional representatives from Silesia and the Eastern Cohesion Region (SI). The focus was on economic diversification, revitalisation of mining areas, and clean energy transition. Both regions shared their challenges and explored potential solutions.

Diversifying industry and revitalising coal mining areas

Both regions face the challenge of diversifying their industrial landscapes as they transition away from coal. Private investors' involvement and support was discussed, and inspiring examples were showcased via site visits. Projects like the revitalised Szombierki Heat and Power Station, and the Skarpa Sports Centre (pictured above) demonstrate the potential for repurposing old coal mine facilities to attract new industries and businesses.

Representatives from the Future Centre of Velenje showcased their work in the Eastern Cohesion Region, which aims to attract and retain young talent. The Katowice Special Economic Zone, located in Silesia's capital city, presented their model for incentivising companies to relocate by offering select tax exemptions.

District heating decarbonisation

Both regions share a dependence on fossil fuel-based district heating networks. The challenge now lies in renovating outdated pipelines and buildings to increase energy efficiency. Velenje plans to invest in the transformation of its district heating system with JTF support, and is using the ‘ESCO model‘ to accelerate the renovation of apartments. Bytom was glad to learn from these experiences, but faces additional complexities as it does not have exclusive ownership of its district heating system.

This is surely not where the cooperation between the regions – or between the regional cities of Bytom and Velenje – ends, as delegates recognised great potential for future, ongoing, fruitful collaboration.