An energy firm is hoping to tap into the large natural gas reserves in former coalfields in south Wales. British Gas' parent company, Centrica has been awarded two licence blocks in the Rhondda and Swansea valleys. It holds a shared interest in a third application block near Caerphilly. If tests are successful drilling for coal bed methane could start in two years. The technology used to drill into the coal seams has already been developed in the US and Australia. The company hopes methane from depleted coal seams could eventually power homes and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Centrica will commence pre-development studies later this year with a planning application expected in late 2009. Subject to planning approvals, drilling could commence in 2010, with possible development by 2014. Sam Laidlaw from Centrica said:...
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