Polskie Górnictwo Naftowe i Gazownictwo (PGNiG) and Polish Geological Institute − National Research Institute (PIG-PIB) are working on an innovatory method of extracting methane from coal deposits. If production tests yield positive results, the mining industry will have a new source of income. Moreover, methane risk at coal mines will be mitigated and methane emissions will be reduced.

PGNiG and PIG-PIB have established a consortium which is conducting a research project in Gilowice, Upper Silesia. The research will use the technology of hydraulic fracturing in boreholes. Experts will see if fracturing increases the amount of methane in coalbeds. They will also test modern techniques and methods of methane stimulation. For PGNiG, it will be the first attempt to produce methane from coalbeds.

„The commercial use of methane we have been able to capture at mines has been falling. This means that we are losing a valuable source of energy,” said Piotr Woźniak, the PGNiG CEO, at a meeting with scientists and mining companies at PIG-PIB’s Upper Silesia Branch in Sosnowiec. „Methane as an energy carrier should be a regular source of income for mines,” Piotr Woźniak added.

„More effective use of coalbed methane will also improve miners’ safety,” emphasised Janusz Jureczka, Head of PIG-PIB’s Upper Silesia Branch. „The project may also lay foundation for commercial methane extraction in decommissioned collieries”, he added.

The work is due to commence in autumn 2016 in the main basin of the Upper Silesian Coal Basin, where the Gilowice-1 and Gilowice-2H boreholes are located. As the operator, PGNiG will draw on its experience in simulation through hydraulic fracturing, which it has performed as part of shale gas exploration projects.

„The LNG terminal yesterday, the Baltic Pipe tomorrow, but in addition to these strategic projects we also have our own gas resources in which we must invest. We are now working on assumptions for a research project we plan to launch soon, with support from the government,” said Łukasz Kroplewski, Vice-President of the Management Board in charge of development.

About PGNIG

The PGNiG Group is the leader of the Polish natural gas market, as well as the only vertically integrated gas company in Poland. Its parent undertaking is Polskie Górnictwo Naftowe i Gazownictwo. Formation of the Group's enabled coordination of the upstream and downstream operations - from exploration and production to storage to trade and distribution of gaseous fuels. The roots of the companies forming PGNiG date back to 19th century - to the beginnings of Polish and world oil industry. The company has been operating under the name PGNiG since 1982. In 1996, the state-owned company PGNiG was transformed into a joint stock company.