Researchers finding new ways to feed algae

As we’ve covered in recent months on Behind the Plug, algae are being tested for its ability to suck carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from coal-generated power plants. As it turns out, algae see CO₂ as nutrients.

These days, researchers are exploring specifically how to use algae as an alternative technology in carbon capture and storage, experimenting with the organisms to remove CO₂ from smokestacks — eliminating the need to trap and permanently bury the CO₂.

The most promising research might be coming out of China, where scientists are testing microalgae at their coal-powered plants. First, the coal is gasified in a simulated underground environment. The carbon dioxide is then extracted with the help of solar and wind power and "fed" to algae, which at that time can used to make biofuel, fertilizer or animal feed—a winning blend of natural and renewable energy sources.

While algae technology is still in the development phase, it certainly shows promise. (Check out previous blog posts on “super algae,” a proposed demonstration plant that would turn algae into ethanol, and coal and algae being considered the “perfect” clean energy pair.) And given that almost half of our electricity comes from coal, we’re confident that this next generation of technologies will make coal a reliable source of energy in the years ahead.