Optimal Surface Exploitation Planning for the New Lignite Mine in Sibovc, Kosovo

Year 2025, Volume: 20 Issue: 2, 123 - 130, 30.06.2025

Albert Hyseni Zoran Panov Rushit Haliti Sylejman Hyseni

Abstract

Coal remains a major classical primary energy source and is expected to maintain a dominant role in electricity generation throughout the first half of the 21st century, particularly in Europe. The Balkan Peninsula, and Kosovo in particular, holds significant lignite reserves over 12 billion ton placing the country among the most resource-rich globally. Despite this geological potential, Kosovo's current lignite production remains modest, underscoring the opportunity for expansion to meet growing domestic energy demands and contribute to the regional energy market. The Kosovo Energy Corporation (KEK) plans to increase production to 15 million ton annually by modernizing existing infrastructure and developing new mines, notably the New Sibovc Mine under the N1 alternative. This approach emphasizes efficient resource exploitation, avoids economically marginal areas, and aims to reduce operational losses. As lignite currently supplies approximately 97% of Kosovo’s electricity, the further development of the coal sector is vital for ensuring long-term national energy security.

Keywords

Lignite, exploatation, Sibovc, New mine, Kosovo

Thanks

The authors would like to express their gratitude to the mining engineers of KEK and to Milaim Zhegrova, Geological Engineer at the Institute of Geoengineering, for their valuable contributions to this scientific research.

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