Methane Emission Reduction in Coal-Dependent Regions: The Shanxi Experience

In recent years, while continuing to ensure national coal supply, Shanxi Province has accelerated its transition toward efficient, intelligent coal development and green, integrated mining practices. Recently, the Shanxi Coshare Innovation Institute of Energy & Environment and iGDP jointly published “Methane Emission Reduction in Coal-Dependent Regions: The Shanxi Experience,” which explores how Shanxi is leveraging policy frameworks, technological innovation, and market mechanisms to promote the resourceful utilization of coal mine methane under the backdrop of China’s “dual carbon” goals. The report highlights that Shanxi, as the province with the highest methane emissions in China, has significantly improved methane capture and utilization rates through diverse technological pathways—including power generation from drained gas, direct combustion for heating, and regenerative thermal oxidation (RTO) for combined heat and power. It has also established a relatively comprehensive support system encompassing legislation, policy targets, fiscal incentives, carbon market engagement, and technological R&D. Drawing on case studies from representative mines such as Sihe, Fusheng, and Yuanxiang, the report demonstrates the feasibility of achieving co-benefits in both emission reductions and economic returns. At the same time, it stresses the need for stricter enforcement of emission standards and the establishment of a robust methane monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) system. By addressing these challenges, Shanxi aims to provide a replicable and scalable model—the “Shanxi Solution”—for methane mitigation in resource-dependent regions worldwide.