Global coalbed methane recovery and use

Abstract

A recent Coal Industry Advisory Board (CIAB) study estimated global methane emissions from the world coal industry at 25 million tonnes per year. About 4.3 million tonnes (17%) of this amount are actually recovered, but only 2.0 million tonnes (8%) are utilized. Under ideal conditions, as much as 60 to 70% of the methane emissions at a specific mine can be recovered and utilized. Under less favorable conditions, recovery efficiency may drop to 30 to 40%. Shallow underground mines and surface mines offer little potential for coalbed methane recovery. A review of coalbed methane recovery practices and geological conditions in major coal producing nations was done to assess the practical limits of coalbed methane (CBM) recovery and utilization. Limited access to the state-of-the-art technology as well as numerous economic and institutional barriers reduces the potential for worldwide CBM recovery to the 30 to 40% range and subsequent utilization to the 15 to 20% range. This estimate is based on existing technology and gas prices that are consistent with current IEA forecasts for world energy prices.