The present disclosure refers to a drive unit for chain drives in mining. The drive unit may comprise at least one drive motor, a gearing unit coupleable to the drive motor, and a power supply housing provided with flange connections on its right and left sides. The at least one drive motor and the gearing unit both may be configured to be both connectable optionally on the right hand side or left hand side flange connection of the power supply housing. Further, a power supply unit housing supply assemblies for the drive motor and/or the gearing unit may be provided. The power supply unit may be mounted in the power supply housing.