CO2 storage in coal seams: a case study-based review of the opportunities and challenges

Thomas, Hywel Rhys ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3951-0409, Sadasivam, Sivachidambaram ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2305-0292 and Almolliyeh, Maram 2026. CO2 storage in coal seams: a case study-based review of the opportunities and challenges. Environmental, Geological and Geotechnical Engineering 1 (1) , 100005. 10.1016/j.egge.2026.100005

Preview

PDF - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives. Download (2MB) | Preview

Abstract

CO2 storage in coal seams is viewed as a part of the overall strategy to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions, with the proximity to emission sources and the possibility of CO2-enhanced coal bed methane recovery (CO2-ECBM) driving the energy sector to consider carbon capture and storage (CCS) as an opportunity. However, economic challenges, technological readiness, the environmental impact, and public acceptance continue to challenge CO2-ECBM. This paper therefore reviews global pilot-scale studies from the perspective of the lessons learned and discusses the potential opportunities surrounding CCS, drawing on experiences from North America, Europe, and Asia, with the means by which technical hurdles such as injectivity loss, coal swelling, and site-specific geomechanical risks have shaped project design and monitoring approaches elucidated. Pilot studies have revealed that advanced well configurations, effective pressure management, and robust multiscale monitoring are critical for operational success and environmental safety. From an economic perspective, integration with methane recovery and strategic siting near emission sources can improve project viability, especially when carbon pricing mechanisms and policy incentives are favorable. However, the realization of large-scale deployment hinges on bridging any policy gaps, streamlining the regulatory frameworks, and fostering public and stakeholder engagement. Overall, the synthesis of the lessons learned underscores the need for continued field validation, technology optimization, and regulatory clarity to fully harness the potential of coal seam CCS as a viable climate mitigation tool.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Engineering
Publisher:	Elsevier
ISSN:	3117-9517
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	9 July 2026
Date of Acceptance:	25 June 2026
Last Modified:	04 Aug 2026 13:28
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/188045

Actions (repository staff only)

Edit Item