Shanxi Province, located in the north of the Chinese mainland, has achieved a record-breaking production of coal-bed methane (CBM), marking a significant step forward in clean energy development and mining safety.
According to the provincial statistics bureau, Shanxi produced 13.4 billion cubic meters of CBM, an 18.9 percent increase compared to the previous year. This output accounts for a remarkable 80.6 percent of the nation’s total CBM production, solidifying Shanxi’s position as a leader in this energy sector.
CBM, an unconventional natural gas primarily composed of methane, is extracted from coal seams. Historically considered a hazardous byproduct responsible for mining accidents, modern technology now enables the stable extraction and utilization of CBM as a clean energy source. This not only reduces environmental pollution but also minimizes the risk of gas explosions in coal mines.
“In the next stage, Shanxi will take multiple measures to boost CBM storage and production, vigorously promoting its development,” said Mao Xiaowen, deputy director of the Shanxi energy bureau.
The province boasts approximately 8.31 trillion cubic meters of proven CBM reserves within a depth of 2,000 meters, accounting for nearly one-third of China’s total reserves. This abundant resource positions Shanxi at the forefront of the country’s clean energy initiatives.
In addition to CBM, Shanxi’s raw coal output reached 1.27 billion tonnes last year, representing about 26.7 percent of the national production. The integration of CBM extraction with coal mining not only enhances energy efficiency but also contributes to safer mining practices.
Shanxi’s advancements in CBM extraction reflect a broader commitment to sustainable energy and safety in mining operations, setting an example for other regions to follow.
