Underground Coal Gasification (UCG)

Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) is a process that converts coal buried deep underground into gas. Instead of mining the coal, air or oxygen is injected into the coal seam, igniting it. This generates synthetic gas, also known as syngas, which contains hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The gas can be used for energy production, similar to natural gas, and can also serve as a feedstock for chemicals. UCG minimizes surface disruption and can utilize coal reserves that are otherwise difficult to access, but it requires careful management to ensure environmental safety.