According to Lu Hailong, a professor at the Institute of Ocean Research at Peking University and the chief scientist in the first mining trials, successful mining of gas hydrate in China is seen as a breakthrough toward a global energy revolution.

With no country able to produce gas commercially due to the challenging conditions and concerns about potential pollution, China, with ample experience accumulated, has become the frontrunner in gas hydrate mining technology.

Li Jinfa, deputy director of China Geological Survey Bureau, said the test drilling and production conducted created a solid foundation for commercial use of the resource before 2030.