ABSTRACT
A B S T R A C T : This discussion paper presents some innovative, balanced visions and scenarios of
new types of a coal mine development. Such a novel coal mine as an in-situ producer o f energy,
l iquid fuels and chemicals could satisfy the increasing needs of European and Pol ish economy at
the time of expensive energy. The vision outlines a response of coal mining research community to
the requirements of energy and chemical industries in order to continue a secure supply of energy
carriers, fuels and chemicals at the post "peak o i l " era. The paper puts under discussion the simila-
rities and differences in thermal and chemical coal conversion processes carried out in-situ (under-
ground conversion of coal) and out of the coal bed (Energyplex). The paper discusses selected nee-
ds for R & D activities aimed at achieving some critical, scientific and technical mass and know-
how necessary for the on time delivery of innovative technology solutions for sustainable coal mi -
ning industries. The paper also accentuates the need for elaborating extended L C A techniques for
the economic and environmental evaluation of different options of the future coal mine structure
and functions. The text draws out several recommendations for the long-term coal conversion tech-
nology strategies in line with Strategic Research and Strategic Deployment Agendas ( S R A , S D A )
of Zero Emission Fossi l Fuel Power Plant, Hydrogen & Fuel C e l l , Green Chemistry and similar
European Technology Platforms as well as the European Sustainable M i n i n g and Minera l Extrac-
tion Technology Platform.