Ospina, Antonio2019-01-252013Ospina, A. (2013). In Situ Coal Gasification As An Alternative For Natural Gas In The Bitumen Extraction And Upgrading Processes In Alberta (Unpublished report). University of Calgary, Calgary, AB.http://hdl.handle.net/1880/109624Alberta has significant coal resources, which represent a major potential for syngas and hydrogen production using underground coal gasification (UCG). Natural gas production in the province is decreasing while demand continues to rise, driven by high demand of this product in the oil sands. This project analyzes the convenience of using syngas from UCG as a substitute for natural gas in Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage and hydrogen production in the hydrocracking process during bitumen upgrading. A major finding of this research project is that ground water risks, fresh water usage and greenhouse gases from the UCG process can be reduced when coal is gasified in deep formations. Syngas as fuel is not economically feasibility under current natural gas price but hydrogen production could be a good alternative for steam-methane reforming under current natural gas price. Strategy analysis shows that oil and gas companies have a strong competitive advantage to develop UCG projects over conventional coal companies.engUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.report10.11575/PRISM/35883