COAL-GASIFICATION BACKERS EYE NOVEL PROJECT FOR METHANE PRODUCTION

Energy industry officials are poised to submit a permit application to Illinois for a new power plant that would produce synthetic natural gas from coal and generate electricity -- the first facility of its kind in over two decades and a project that is drawing the attention of coal-state lawmakers seeking to boost the fuel's use. Sources say the project's backers recently met with members of the Illinois congressional delegation to inform them of the proposed facility, but add that...