PGE GiEK plans artificial lake at Bełchatów mine site

PGE GiEK plans to transform the Bełchatów open-pit mine, Europe’s largest, into a massive artificial lake following the cessation of coal mining in the first pit later this year. The project aims to create a major recreational area, often referred to as the ‘Masurian Lakes of Bełchatów.’

The reservoir is expected to be the deepest in Poland, with a planned depth of approximately 170 to 195 meters. To prepare the site, earth from the neighboring Szczerców field is being used to reshape the slopes and shorelines. The filling process will involve gradually reducing drainage to allow groundwater to rise, supplemented by surface water.

As part of the broader energy transition, the company is also managing workforce changes. A Voluntary Departure Program (PDO) has been implemented to address the eventual loss of thousands of jobs as power blocks are phased out between 2030 and 2036. As of August, 628 employees across the PGE GiEK complex have utilized the program, which offers financial compensation based on the time remaining until retirement eligibility.