KGHM Polska Miedź S.A. has officially commenced geological and hydrogeological drilling for the Retków project — the first stage in constructing what will become the deepest mining shaft in Poland. The new shaft is expected to reach approximately 1,360 meters. Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Minister of State Assets Wojciech Balczun, and Deputy Minister Eliza Zeidler visited the site to observe progress and discuss the strategic role of new copper mining investments for the region and the national economy.
The study visit, also attended by KGHM CEO Andrzej Szydło, focused on the development of Poland’s copper mining industry, the importance of long-term investment, and the contribution of local companies to major national projects.
Strategic Importance for Poland’s Economy
During the visit, Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the importance of copper for Poland’s modern economy and the broader global landscape.
“It is a great satisfaction to stand in a place that represents a major undertaking with the potential for significant future returns — not only in economic terms, but also for the security of KGHM and the entire region. Copper, like other metals, is gaining geopolitical importance. This is our economic security,” the Prime Minister said.
He also highlighted the growing demand for copper across global industries:
- A single wind turbine requires around 5 tons of copper.
- A combustion-engine car uses around 30 kg, while an electric vehicle requires over 80 kg.
Tusk praised KGHM’s commitment to using Polish contractors:
“By ensuring that Polish companies carry out almost the entire investment, KGHM provides work for tens of thousands of people for years. This is local content in practice.”
The Prime Minister also pointed to government measures supporting the copper industry:
“We have already decided to reduce the burden of the copper tax for KGHM, so that as work progresses, the company will benefit from a more favorable tax environment. This supports the company — and supports us all.”
A Nationally Significant Investment
Minister Wojciech Balczun stressed that KGHM’s decision to proceed with new shafts represents a major strategic investment for the broader Polish economy.
“Copper is essential for the energy transition and the development of a modern economy. This project is also important because it involves local companies, helping strengthen the role of medium-sized and small Polish firms in large state-related investments,” Balczun said.
He noted that the planned reduction in the copper tax from 2026 will support KGHM as it carries out unprecedented investments following years of underinvestment.
Strengthening Poland’s Resource Independence
KGHM CEO Andrzej Szydło thanked the government for its cooperation on tax reforms and highlighted the impact of the new investments:
“KGHM is one of the few companies that not only talks about resource independence for Poland and Europe — but takes real steps to achieve it. Our priority is investment in Poland, particularly in the Main Technological Line. Tens of billions of złoty will be invested over the medium and long term.”
Szydło emphasized that optimizing the copper tax does not necessarily reduce state revenues:
“Domestic production benefits both KGHM and the owner of the deposits — the Polish state. We employ tens of thousands of people, pay significant CIT taxes, and work with Polish suppliers. KGHM and the Copper Basin are proof of the benefits of a local content strategy.”
Major Construction Projects Underway
In June, KGHM’s Management Board approved the construction of three new shafts: Retków, Gaworzyce, and GG-2 “Odra.” Geological surveys are the first stage and will determine the optimal drilling technology and freezing depth of the rock mass. The total cost of these investments is estimated at a minimum of 9 billion PLN, with completion expected in 10–15 years.
- Retków and GG-2 “Odra” will serve as material and personnel shafts.
- Gaworzyce will function as an exhaust ventilation shaft.
Local Content in Practice
The investment provides a significant boost to Polish suppliers. Companies within the KGHM Group — including PeBeKa S.A. and Cuprum sp. z o.o. R&D Center — serve as the main contractors for the current phase. These companies specialize in large-scale mining projects and have supported KGHM for decades.
Given the scale of the undertaking, construction of a new mining shaft typically spans several years and involves billions of złoty, depending on depth, geological conditions, and intended use. A substantial portion of the financing will support Polish companies and employees.
A Local Powerhouse, A Global Leader
The Retków shaft, located in the Grębocice municipality (Lower Silesia), will ultimately reach a depth of around 1,360 meters, making it the deepest mining shaft in Poland. Its reinforced internal diameter will measure 7.5 meters. The shaft will serve as a transport, materials, and ventilation structure for the Rudna Mining Division.
Currently, Poland’s deepest shaft is KGHM’s GG-1, at 1,348 meters — soon to be surpassed by Retków.
