Coal mines release methane in their ventilation air. Methane has a greenhouse index 25 times that of carbon dioxide, meaning each molecule traps 25 times more heat in the atmosphere.

Corky’s has developed tailored technologies that convert this methane into carbon dioxide and heat. The heat produced can be utilised and converted into renewable energy or used for space heating or cooling.

Corky's patented technology specialises in the reduction and beneficial use of waste products.

Two wastes in particular are targeted: coal mine Ventilation Air Methane (VAM) and biomass or household waste.

Industries that have biomass include forestry and agriculture. Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is also increasingly becoming a problem for local councils.

These biomass and MSW waste-to-energy processes also have large amounts of electricity generation potential.

Corky’s has been sourcing high-efficiency fans, sensors and silencers from Fanquip as part of the Corky's Group research and industry solutions.

As both businesses are based in the Hunter Valley region of NSW, they have a direct link to the mining sector of that area and Corky’s has invested much time and effort into meeting its needs in relation to the carbon tax threat.

The Corky's Group comprises Corky's Carbon and Combustion, Corky's Carbon Consultancy and Corky’s Sustainable Energy.

The process engineering consultancy, Corky's Carbon Consultancy, work with miners, iron makers and primary industry. Some of the feasibility studies that the company have completed include saw dust utilisation, animal waste utilisation and subsequent contaminated water treatment and recycling.

The company also conducts risk management including functional safety analysis and Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) studies, as well as continuous improvement including quality assurance and the development of a design assurance process within the mining industry.