GreatPoint is in the process of commercialising its bluegas technology, which is capable of converting coal into pipeline quality natural gas.

The technology also allows for the capture and storage of carbon emissions.

The coal is converted using a single-stage catalytic gasification process, creating a natural gas that is 99.5% pure methane. This gas can be transported throughout North America using the existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure.

Peabody said projects of this nature will help to ease reliance on expensive natural gas imports.