Utilization of methane from underground coal mines on the example of zec company

Abstract

In underground mines the methane, accompanying the exploitation of the primary mineral-hard coal, and is discharged into the atmosphere in two ways: with ventilation air (70%) and methane drainage system (30%). The development of methane from coal seams is important for the following reasons: as it can be used for the production of electricity and heat or in cogeneration. This is because the emission of methane into the atmosphere contributes to the greenhouse effect. Currently the work is being carried out by the European Commission to impose methane emissions into the atmosphere through mines. Methane has become an important source of energy in many countries in recent years. Poland's energy policy also implies an increase in security of supply of fuels and energy. methane from coal deposits. The effective use of methane captured by drainage system in underground coal mines brings economic, social and enviromental benefits. These advantages are particularly important for the cities of Silesian Agglomeration because they limit the low emission owing to heat production for housing estates in the vicinity of mines. This article presents the examples of operating cogenaration installations that produce electricity and heat by ZEC company and the benefits resulted from methane use.