I haven't followed the science of it as closely as you - but I...

I haven't followed the science of it as closely as you - but I do believe that there will be a lot of money thrown at "clean coal" technologies worldwide in the near term. I can see the logic in this one immediately (as opposed to the RIO/BP proposal which looks like an excuse for a government subsidy and a stamp of approval from ethical investment funds). Also interesting the way that India and and now Pakistan have jumped on it. Looks like they believe they have found a way to meet their own energy security needs. The fact that they aren't really in a position to subsidise blue-sky research that may eventually prove unworkable, strengthens the case for me.

I would guess that UCG is being viewed as both a threat and opportunity by global energy companies, and most will be wanting to learn more about it if nothing else. Possibly worth the airfare to go to Houston?