The state-owned company Resavica has officially submitted a request to the Ministry of Environmental Protection for approval to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) related to the expansion of coal mining activities in the eastern and western parts of the Stavalj deposit. Located on the Pešter plateau, the brown coal mine has a history dating back to 1936, with the current open-cut pit having started operations in 1976. The central coal seam is now approaching depletion.
The proposed expansion involves activating two new mining zones—the Eastern and Western fields—based on verified lignite reserves. To maintain an annual production target of one million tons, the plan includes deploying modern underground mining technologies and advanced mechanization.
The Eastern field accounts for about 32% of the Stavalj–Sjenica coal deposit and is divided into 33 work blocks. Its coal seam averages 12 meters in thickness and is geologically stable. However, challenges remain due to the proximity of local communities and the need for further underground investigations. Access to this field will be established through a combined transport and ventilation shaft.
Covering approximately 62% of the deposit, the Western field is divided into 21 blocks and categorized into three complexity levels because of its complex geology. Mining methods here will include longwall and bord-and-pillar techniques, with three access points planned: an extension of the current open-cut pit and two new surface shafts.
A comprehensive evaluation of the potential environmental impacts has been prepared, detailing mitigation strategies and monitoring procedures in accordance with Serbia’s EIA regulations. If the project receives approval, it will extend the operational lifespan of the mine.
