Use of Mine Gas for Power Production and Improving Underground Mining Conditions

摘要

Minegas is an energy carrier. It can contribute to meeting the high Chinese energy demands. At the same tine, it reduces the CO_2 emissions of the Chinese energy sector. Minegas increases the economic viability of coalmining in China. This is because a minegas alarm results in interruption of mining. The high investments in the coalface technology are only worthwhile however with high running times. Secondly, the drained gas allows electricity production, the costs of which are much lower than the electricity cost of the network operator. Thirdly, free waste heat accumulates during electricity production. This can also be economically recycled, as my example will shortly demonstrate. Finally, utilization of the greenhouse gas CH_4 results in CO_2 credits. These can be sold, thereby resulting in new income for the mine. Utilization of minegas increases occupational safety and improves the miners'working conditions. Occupational safety is increased by reducing the number of accidents. This was already dealt with by Dr. Goerlich. The aspect of working conditions should also be added here, since the working conditions can also be improved by reducing the working temperatrres underground with the aid of minegas.