Conference "Issues of Operation, Maintenance and Repair of Machinery Used in Surface Mining" in Czech Republic

The conference „Issues of Operation, Maintenance and Repair of Machinery Used in Surface Mining“, held on 2-3 October 2025 in Sloup v Čechách, served as an important platform for communication and dissemination of the HYDROMINE project.

A key part of the conference programme was a lecture block focused on science, research, and innovation, which provided the main opportunity in 2025 to present the progress of the HYDROMINE project. The presentation introduced the ongoing international collaboration, current analytical work, and initial results from field measurements. These results demonstrate the potential of small and medium-scale pumped-hydro storage systems in former mining and quarry sites, highlighting how post-mining landscapes can contribute to energy storage, increase power-system flexibility, and support ecological land restoration.

The presentation also emphasised several technological innovations developed within the project, including the design of reversible pump-as-turbine (PAT) units, environmentally friendly pipeline systems, and improved hydrogeological models necessary for the safe and stable long-term operation of future pumped-storage facilities. In addition, participants were introduced to the planned demonstration site at the KOSD Niemodlin quarry in Niemodlin, where the full concept will be tested under real operating conditions.

The session attracted around 85 professionals from industry, research organisations, and public authorities, creating an active platform for discussion on the energy use of reclaimed mining areas. The strong visibility of the HYDROMINE project made it one of the most discussed topics of the conference programme.