Enhanced Coal Bed Methane Production and Sequestration of CO₂ in Unmineable Coal Seams
Project # 41148

Primary Performing Organization:
Consol Energy, Inc.

This project will provide a documented case study of the effectiveness and economics of carbon sequestration in an unmineable coal seam. The project will involve development of a 206.6 acre area involving two coal seams. The lower seam is an unmineable seam that will be degassed and eventually injected with carbon dioxide (CO₂). The upper seam is mineable coal that will be degassed to produce coal bed methane, thus avoiding methane emissions when the seam is mined. The upper mineable seam will be isolated from the lower unmineable seam in which CO₂ injection will take place, to prevent CO₂ migration into the mineable seam. The results can be used not only by mining and power generation companies who wish to sequester CO₂ in unmineable coal seams, but also by regulatory agencies and the public to aid in policy and permitting decisions.

The project objectives are to:

• Demonstrate the application of coal seam methane production using horizontal drilling to degasify coal seams.
• Use the sale of methane (natural gas) to reduce the cost of CO₂ storage.
• Sequester carbon dioxide in an unmineable coal seam.
• Demonstrate that the injected CO₂ remains in place.

The key to reaching these objectives is a drilling process that will reduce potential methane emissions from coal mining, produce methane, and create a sink for CO₂ in unmineable coal seams.  See photograph.

Contact:
Project Manager:  William O’Dowd, william.odowd@netl.doe.gov

Related Papers and Publications:

• ECBM and Unmineable Coal Seams Fact Sheet [PDF]