Legislation creating a regime for the exploration and production
of coalbed methane has been adopted by Parliament and awaits the
President's signature.
The law, which will come into force once officially published,
introduces principles for safe production of coalbed methane as
well as licensing and permit requirements and mandatory insurance
of property against the risks of environmental damage.
The law will have a particular impact on Joint Implementation
projects under the Kyoto Protocol involving the capture and use of
coalbed methane.
One of the key measures in the new law is the requirement to
obtain a special permit for companies carrying out coalbed methane
exploration and production at existing coal mines, mines being
prepared for exploitation and unexploited or abandoned coal fields.
The only exemption is for those already holding a special permit
for coal production with the right to produce coalbed methane as an
accompanying mineral resource.
