Carbon Dioxide Capture from Existing Coal-Fired Power Plants

摘要

There is growing concern that emissions of CO2 and other greenhouse gases (GHG) to the atmosphere is resulting in climate change with undefined consequences. This has led to a comprehensive program to develop technologies to reduce CO2 emissions from coal-fired power plants. New technologies, such as advanced combustion systems and gasification technologies hold great promise for economically achieving CO2 reductions. However, if the United States decides to embark on a CO2 emissions control program employing these new and cleaner technologies in new plants only, it may not be sufficient. It will also be necessary to reduce emissions from the existing fleet of power plants. This study will build on the results of previous work to help determine better approaches to capturing CO2 from existing coal-fired power plants. This study significantly increases the information available on the impact of retrofitting CO2 capture to existing PC-fired power plants. This study also provides input to potential electric utility actions concerning GHG emissions mitigation, should the U.S. decide to reduce CO2 emissions. Such information is critical for deciding on the best path to follow for reduction of CO2 emissions, should that become necessary.