Coal Mine Methane Capture & Utilization Program About the Program

Virginia Energy, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), is leading a major initiative to reduce methane emissions from active and abandoned coal mines in Southwest Virginia. The Coal Mine Methane (CMM) Capture & Utilization Program is funded through a $80.7 million award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program. The program provides $79.5 million in competitive grants to support projects that detect, capture, and reuse fugitive methane-a highly potent greenhouse gas-as a valuable energy resource. The remaining funds will support program oversight, field training, inspections, and methane detection equipment. The program runs through January 2030.


Programs Goals
  • Reduce methane emissions by up to 1 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent annually
  • Repurpose legacy mine lands for productive reuse
  • Support economic development in historically coal-dependent communities
  • Improve air quality and public health
  • Enhance Virginia's energy reliability and security
Request For Information (RFI)

Now Live: View the RFI

Virginia Energy is seeking input from a wide range of stakeholders to inform the upcoming Request for Proposals (RFP). This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a first-of-its-kind methane recovery initiative in Virginia that delivers climate impact, supports energy transition, and revitalizes Southwest Virginia's economy. Participants may be eligible for future grant funding and inclusion in pilot or demonstration projects.

The RFI seeks input from:

  • Technology providers specializing in methane detection, capture, and reuse
  • Project developers and engineering firms
  • Owners and operators of active or legacy coal properties
  • Local governments, nonprofits, and economic development leaders
  • Academic institutions and research organizations

Key Topics for Input

  • Methane detection and capture technologies
  • Viable sites for demonstration or full-scale deployment
  • Infrastructure, permitting, or investment challenges
  • Opportunities for public-private or cross-sector partnerships

Important Dates

  • RFI Deadline: July 16, 2025
  • RFP Release (Anticipated): Summer 2025
  • Program End Date: January 2030

Contact Us

Office of Economic Development
cmm@energy.virginia.gov