Future Mining Forum in Katowice to Address Technology, Energy, and Efficiency Challenges

The Future Mining Forum & Expo 2026, scheduled for September 9-11 in Katowice, aims to tackle the complex challenges facing the mining sector: ensuring energy security, maintaining industrial competitiveness, and navigating the ongoing transformation of the industry. The event will bring together stakeholders from public administration, industry, science, and professional organizations.

A key focus will be the "Technology, Energy & Operations" track, which will delve into the operational, energy, and technological hurdles confronting modern mining. A central debate will examine the role of coal in the energy system, particularly in light of geopolitical instability, rising energy demands, and the increasing costs associated with the EU's climate policies. Participants will discuss coal's prospects through 2030-2040, the influence of the EU ETS on economic competitiveness and energy prices, and the potential of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies to mitigate emissions.

The forum will also highlight the rapid integration of automation, robotization, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into mining operations. Digital mine management systems, intelligent production support tools, and enhanced safety technologies are becoming industry standards. Discussions will extend to the cybersecurity of industrial infrastructure and the future of deep-sea and space mining as potential sources for strategic raw materials in the coming decades.

Operational efficiency is the third pillar of the forum's agenda. Rising costs in energy, labor, investment, and regulation necessitate process optimization for sector competitiveness. Debates will center on managing capital and operational expenditures (CAPEX/OPEX), energy efficiency, productivity improvements, and technological solutions that boost profitability while upholding the highest safety standards. Notable speakers include government officials, industry leaders from major mining and industrial groups, and representatives from European mining associations.