Mine number 7, the last working Norwegian coal mine in the Svalbard archipelago, is set to close permanently next summer as part of a plan to switch to alternative energy sources. The mine, which produced 30,000 tonnes of coal annually for heating Longyearbyen and 80,000 tonnes for European industries, was initially scheduled to close in 2023 but was delayed due to the war in Ukraine and rising energy prices. Longyearbyen has already transitioned its power plant from coal to diesel, reducing carbon emissions and paving the way for renewable energy projects like solar panels. Store Norske, the state-owned company, is leading the green transition with solar panel installations, while Russia continues coal production in the region, albeit at reduced levels.

 

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.