Wyo. Launches Gas, Coal Conversion Studies

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming is conducting two feasibility studies on natural gas and coal conversion technologies.

The Advanced Conversion Technologies Task Force recently selected the two proposals from among 14 applications, giving them a Sept. 1 deadline for completion.

The task force directs the University of Wyoming School of Energy Resources in administering the state’s Clean Coal Technology Research Account.

School Director Mark Northam tells the Associated Press  that the new studies are intended to help the state decide on awarding an additional $9 million for engineering and design of specific conversion projects.

Northam says the goal is to add value to Wyoming’s mineral production by building plants in the state that can, for instance, convert natural gas or coal to gasoline.