Oil and Energy

Coal gasification offers one of the most versatile and clean ways to convert the energy contained in coal into electricity, hydrogen, and other sources of power. Turning coal into synthetic gas isn't a new concept, in fact, much of the basic technology dates back to World War II. During the gasification process, coal is subjected to heat, pressure, and steam. These forces act as catalysts, breaking the coal down into various gases, which consist mostly of hydrogen. The resulting gases can then be burned to generate electricity. The waste heat created by this process also offers cogeneration opportunities.

Coal gasification plants are cleaner than standard pulverized coal combustion facilities, producing less smog and acid rain forming sulfur and nitrogen byproducts. For this reason, gasification appeals to many as a way to utilize relatively inexpensive and expansive coal reserves, while still protecting the environment. Pioneering coal gasification electric power plants are now operating commercially in the United States and in other nations around the globe. These plants produce significant quantities of syngas from a variety of feedstock’s and produce a wide variety of products. The mounting interest in coal gasification technology reflects a convergence of three changes in the electricity generation marketplace.

These changes are:
- The increasing maturity of gasification technology;
- The extremely low emissions from Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) plants, especially air emissions, and the potential for lower cost control of greenhouse gases than other coal-based systems;
- The recent dramatic increase in the cost of natural gas based power, which is viewed as a major competitor to coal based power.

At the end of 2004 the DOE granted funding for two additional IGCC projects, in Florida and Minnesota, both of which are expected to further advance industry acceptance of this technology. These projects, along with other operating private facilities, illustrate the viability of this technology. During President Bush’s second term, coal is expected to play a key role in the nation’s energy policy. With the President’s ‘Clear Skies’ Initiative requiring 70% reductions of many emissions by 2018, a market for utilizing clean coal technologies over the long term will most definitely evolve. Coal Gasification 2005: Roadmap to commercialization provides an introduction to coal gasification technology and its ability to unlock the huge energy reserves found in coal in an environmentally responsible way. Working gasification projects in the private and public sector are discussed and recommendations are offered to provide a “roadmap” for the continued and successful commercialization of this technology.

Contents include:
-Clear explanations of different coal gasification technologies
-Emissions & efficiency comparisons with other fuels and technologies
-Examples of US and global gasification projects - successes and failures
-Commercial developments in 2004 and 2005 forecasts
-Gasification projects by syngas output
-Recommendations for greater market penetration and commercialization

With its focus on emerging technology, projects under development and key industry players, this study is an invaluable tool for:

-Planning and finance personnel
-Coal and electricity power project developers
-The trading and investment community

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c14690

Laura Wood
Senior Manager
Research and Markets
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