Life-cycle energy, cost, and CO₂ emission of CO₂-enhanced coalbed methane (ECBM) recovery framework

This study aims to analyze the technical, economic, and environmental capabilities of CO₂-enhanced coalbed methane (ECBM) recovery framework. By incorporating various analysis techniques such as process simulation, techno-economic evaluation, and life cycle assessment, we developed a systematic approach to evaluate the whole process chain of the framework consisting of five sub-processes: CO₂ capture, CO₂ transport, CO₂ injection, raw coalbed methane extraction, and methane purification. As a case study, the CO₂-ECBM recovery in the Tavan Tolgoi basin, the largest coal seam in Mongolia, was investigated. The life-cycle energy and cost, and the net CO₂ emission were analyzed using twelve realistic scenarios. As a result, the CO₂ capture is analyzed as the main cost driver due to its high energy consumption, followed by the CO₂ transportation. In addition, the proposed framework is identified as the only negative CO₂ emission option compared to typical CBM and flue gas-ECBM frameworks.