Solid Energy has announced plans for a new underground and open-cast coal mine employing up to 150 people on the South Island's West Coast.

Phase two of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the deaths of 29 men in the Pike River mine concluded this afternoon, with five big issues raised by families, mines rescue experts, police, Solid Energy and Pike River Coal officials.

At the start of this century, clean energy was all the rage. The revolution may still be happening, but it's taking its time, reports Peter Huck.

John Key today assured distraught Pike River family members that although the mine could be sold to a new owner, the mining licence would not be transferred until the 29 victims entombed inside the pit were brought home.