Evaluation of Beneficial Use Options of CBM Produced Water

The current management and beneficial uses of coalbed methane (CBM) produced water are highly dependent on applicable regulations, produced water quality and quantity, price of gas and disposal costs, costs of water transportation and treatment, liability and water rights. The determination of a specific beneficial use depends on federal and state jurisdiction, and the circumstances of each case. The study is part of a large project coordinated by the Colorado School of Mines to develop an integrated framework for beneficial use of CBM produced water. This presentation describes beneficial use options, and technical, logistical, regulatory, legal and other institutional issues that can inhibit the beneficial use of produced water. A modeling framework is developed to evaluate the institutional complexity and economic viability of multiple beneficial use options. The decision making framework is comprised of four modules: 1) Water Quality Module; 2) Treatment Selection Module; 3) Beneficial Use Screening Module; and 4) Beneficial Use Economic Module. This presentation will focus on evaluation of different beneficial use scenarios based on the outcome of the modules including a complete estimate of produced water quality, preferred treatment process trains for each beneficial use scenario, estimated capital costs, O&M costs and considerations, water storage and conveyance systems, institutional complexity, and benefits associated with beneficial use.