EU proposes to end coal subsidies by 2014

Mines in Spain, Germany (Ruhr) and Romania (Jiu Valleu) rely on subsidies to be explored economically. The EU proposes to end coal subsidies by 2014. Why not ending coal subsidies sooner?

"Ending coal subsidies in 2010 would have "dire" social and economic consequences. It would also be worse for the environment because indigenous coal would probably be replaced by imported coal rather than other alternatives, says the Commission."

Poland produces more than half the EU's hard coal without subsidies.