The conventional method of power generation in the remote and rural areas of Alaska involves use of diesel powered electric generators. Use of diesel for power generation in remote areas is very expensive because of high diesel price and additional transportation costs to remote locations. A possible alternative for power generation in the remote areas of Alaska is use of natural gas associated with coal deposits, known as coal bed methane (CBM). Alaska has the largest coal deposit in the entire US. The CBM potential in Alaska has been estimated to be 1000 trillion cubic feet (TCF) methane in place. The Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Survey has determined that over 37 remote villages are situated on or are immediately adjacent to coal deposits. Therefore, Alaska's vast coal reserve could potentially provide clean and low cost power to the rural areas if the CBM could be harnessed.