Achieving climate neutrality in coal mining regions through the underground coal gasification

Abstract

Coal mining regions face significant challenges in transitioning towards climate neutrality due to their dependence on fossil fuel extraction. This research explores the potential of underground coal gasification (UCG) technology as a pathway towards climate neutrality in these regions. UCG involves converting coal in-situ into syngas, a cleaner-burning fuel, while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. The study investigates the material-thermal parameters of the gasification process using the MTB SPGV software and analyzes the gas concentration and producer gas yield parameters in the “Stepova” Mine field of SE “Lvivvuhillia”. Additionally, technological solutions for achieving climate neutrality through carbon dioxide (CO2) utilization are proposed, focusing on pre-separation of CO2 from producer gas obtained during UCG. A technological scheme for CO2 utilization is presented, outlining the steps from gas extraction to storage and utilization in underground spaces. The proposed method offers a promising approach to mitigate CO2 emissions and optimize resource utilization in coalmining regions, contributing to global efforts for environmental sustainability and climate action.