Scientists and engineers know that coal is going to be a part of our energy portfolio for many decades to come – but they also understand we need to deploy emissions-cutting technologies in order to continue using it.
That’s why the Center for Energy at the University of Pittsburgh is heavily focused on developing the most cutting-edge innovations for fossil fuels in addition to renewables like wind and solar. Pitt researchers want to push the envelope for cleaner, more efficient coal-based electricity generation.
Just take a look at their clean coal initiatives – they include converting coal to clean energy sources, cleanly combusting coal, storing carbon dioxide underground and creating new sensors for more efficient fossil fuel plants.
Here are some more projects that the Center is working on. Click on each link to read about its concept, benefits and technical approach:
• CO2 Capture from Power Generation Facilities Using Novel Physical Solvents
As you can see, the Center’s clean coal initiatives cover different parts of the energy cycle, from pre-combustion to post-combustion. It’s good to know that people are approaching the technology from across the spectrum. Support the Center for Energy and become a fan of the University of Pittsburgh on Facebook.
The American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity (ACCCE) is committed to the idea that America can have the affordable, reliable electricity we need, with the clean environment we want. ACCCE’s Behind the Plug blog is the place for up-to-date news and analysis on clean coal technology developments and energy policy progress.
I have heard that some coal fired electricity generation plants have reduced the amount of Sulphur and Nitrogen containing gasses released from the flu. And making coal “cleaner” is a great idea. But won’t flu gasses always cause acid rain and mercury contamination? Also, is there any progress in making mining safer and less destructive to biodiverse habitats and air quality?
Crunch: Thanks to more than $90 billion invested in advanced technologies since 1990, the environmental footprint of coal-based generation has been significantly reduced. Sulfur dioxide has been reduced overall by 37 percent, nitrogen oxides by 12.9 percent and particulate matter by 88.5 percent. Continued development of clean coal technology will only enhance our ability to harness emissions. Read more about these technologies on the America’s Power Website.