The potential sites for UCG are frequently located in areas that have historically relied on the coal industry for its main source of income. 

The economics and safety implications of continuing these mine working led to their closure and a reliance on coal imports from other areas of the world.

Previous prosperity in these areas has, in many cases been replaced by widespread deprivation and unemployment.

Now, UCG offers the potential to rejuvinate these communities without the many drawbacks of traditional coal exploitation techniques.