Study/ Jiu Valley: enough coal for mining in the next decades

There are enough oil reserves in the Jiu Valley to keep the region's mining operations going for decades, according to a study by the University of Petrosani. The research was carried out at the request of the Energy Ministry, which is considering prolonging activity in the four remaining mines still in operation and which are in a program of definitive closure until 2032, agreed with the European Commission.

Reporter: A recent study conducted by the University of Petrosani shows that the reserves of hard coal insist on long-term exploitation, says the Rector of the institution, Radu Mihai Sorin.

Radu Mihai Sorin: As of 20 years ago, we still had about 80 years of underground exploitation. Not all strata, however, they are very good for exploitation. They are varied, they break. The technology exists. The only problem is investment and using modern methods. We have shown that there are indeed resources. Mining can continue, but, of course, it must continue within certain parameters of profitability.

At present, the four mines produce a total of 500 tons of coal per day, which shows the lack of profitability if it were decided to continue operating.

Investment has been lacking in recent years and the mines have been kept at a minimum of activity, so a possible return to closure will have to be backed up with adequate state funding.

Translated by: Radu Matei