Coal Gasification - Good for the Environment — Good for Indiana
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Illustration courtesy Indiana Geological Survey . |
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What is coal gasification?
Under high temperature and pressure coal is transformed into a gas prior to combustion.
What's the advantage of Integrated Combined-Cycle Combustion (IGCC)?
Gas from coal is fired in a gas turbine and the hot exhaust is converted to steam to fire a steam turbine generator, thus the process is much more efficient than conventional coal plants.
Are there other advantages to adopting IGCC?
In addition to increased efficiency – which means less pollution– the overall air emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter are significantly reduced.
What about water quality and solid wastes?
Water use is significantly less. IGCC produces less solid waste and the slag produced is in an inert state much like glass.
IGCC lends itself to future carbon dioxide regulation because in its concentrated stream it can be removed at less cost. Other byproducts collected are in a purer state and tend to lend themselves to reuse as potential feedstocks in other processes.
Why is IGCC good for Indiana?
IGCC increases our reliance on instate water resources. We have more than a 400 year supply of coal at current consumption rates. Thus we avoid reliance on other fuels and also avoid the risks of transporting it long distances. It also creates jobs for Hoosiers.
Is IGCC technology available?
Indiana is only one of two states that have significant experience with coal gasification for the production of electricity.
Are there disadvantages to IGCC?
Although it can be developed quicker, the capital cost of IGCC is higher than conventional pulverized coal combustion. However, Indiana is ahead of other states in working on incentives to make it economically attractive.
What role can IWF play in the IGCC issue?
We can have a positive effect by assuming a leadership position to garner support for IGCC in Indiana. It's a logical win-win for Indiana...reducing environmental impact, efficiently utilizing a local natural resource and creating jobs at the same time.
