An analysis of new generation coal gasification projects

Abstract

The global trends of increasing oil and gas costs have compelled coal possessing countries to start long term underground coal gasification (UCG) projects. These enhance national energy security and are among the cleanest, ecologically safest coal utilization technologies. This paper delineates the major characteristics of such technologies and analyzes technical solutions. Highlighting the desire to develop large scale industrial UCG plants, pilot level projects are presented using a new UCG method developed in Russia by Joint Stock Company Gazprom Promgaz. This method is distinct for its high controllability, stability, and energy efficiency. New, efficient technical solutions have been developed over the last 10–15 years and are patented in Russia. They guarantee controllability and stability of UCG gas production. Over one hundred injection and gas production wells have been operated simultaneously. Keywords: Underground coal gasification (UCG), UCG technology of the new generation, Stability and controllability, Clean coal technology