Airth Pilot Test Well

The first pilot test of the Coal Bed Methane resource is being conducted in the area of Airth within the Falkirk Local Authority area. The pilot test of the coals located in this area is the most extensive appraisal test of UK coals conducted to date.

Composite Energy have drilled 4 horizontal wells in this area and have two more planned as part of the test phase, ensuring that the area of coal is comprehensively accessed and can be drained down. During the test phase, these wells are being used to pump water out of the gas-bearing coal seams.

The aim is that by uniformly dewatering a known zone of coal across an extended time period, commercial production of gas will be achieved. In order to service this pilot test and make best use of the gas produced during the test a power generation and water treatment hub will be constructed.

The gas produced during the test phase will be used to produce electricity, which will then be supplied to the local electricity network for use in homes and industry. The goal is to test commerciality, "Can enough gas be produced?"