Since 1973, SRDA and its predecessor agencies have been conducting field experiments, laboratory investigations and analytical studies on in site coal gasification. While the U.S. development of this technology is still in an early stage, a significant amount of information is becoming available by which to assess the technical feasibility, economic viability and environmental impact of this approach to coal resource utilization. This paper will discuss, based on available information, such factors as resource applicability, resource utilization, process products and economics, environmental impact, and health, safety and societal aspects. The overall conclusion is that current results are extremely encouraging and an accelerated development of this technology is warranted.