Publication Overview
Until now, IEA GHG’s studies on coal-based power plants with CO₂ capture have concentrated mainly on high rank (bituminous) coals but it is recognised that low-rank coals (sub-bituminous coal, lignite and brown coal) are important fuels for power generation in several countries. A study has therefore been carried out to estimate the performance and costs of low rank coal fired power plants with CO₂ capture based on various technologies. The study was carried out for IEA GHG by Foster Wheeler Italiana. This overview written by IEA GHG summarises the results of the study and puts them in context with results from other studies carried out recently by IEA GHG. More detailed technical information is included in the Executive Summary in Foster Wheeler’s report.
Publication Summary
There is little difference between the costs and thermal efficiencies of low rank coal power plants with CO₂ capture based on post-combustion capture, oxy combustion and IGCC. The optimum technology will depend on the coal analysis and other local circumstances.
Adding post combustion CO₂ capture to a brown coal fired circulating fluidised bed combustion plant reduces the thermal efficiency by 10 percentage points and increases the cost of electricity by about 55%.
Post combustion capture and oxyfuel combustion appear to become more competitive compared to IGCC for lower rank coals.
