Technology is readily available to recover methane (CH4) – the major component of natural gas – from coal mines. By working cooperatively with coal companies, Alcor Energy can turn coal mine methane (CMM), a greenhouse gas more than 20 times as potent as carbon dioxide, into a source of revenue. Furthermore, abandoned coal mines can still produce significant methane emissions from diffuse vents, fissures, or boreholes.

CMM end uses depend on the gas quality, especially the concentration of methane and the presence of other contaminants. This methane can be deliberately extracted and used to generate power. The global potential for economically viable methane recovery and use is significant. As the break-even price for methane reductions rises, the mitigation potential grows. Working with Alcor to produce energy from CMM will mitigate climate change, improve mine safety and productivity, and generate revenues and cost savings for the mine operator.