European Clean-Coal Revolution Picks Up Pace, Concerns Abound

The resurgence of interest in coal-fueled power plants across Europe, contrary to the position of the fuel as the biggest challenge to addressing climate change, is causing alarm to climatologists and clean energy advocates, according to the New York Times.

European power generators are emphasizing that their new coal power plants will be as clean as possible, including the possible adoption of such unproven technologies like carbon capture and storage. The New York Times noted that around 50 clean-coal plants are scheduled to be built across Europe in the next five years.

The bargaining chip for clean-coal advocates is the reduced particulate, sulfur dioxide and nitrous oxide emissions. But critics have pointed out that such technology will have a minimal effect on carbon emissions, the major point of contention over the use of clean-coal technology.

The news source noted that, proponents of coal argue that its abundance and geographical spread are critical to ensuring the world’s energy security. The lack of a coal cartel, unlike oil which is controlled by OPEC, will reportedly provide opportunities for price negotiation.

Italian utility Enel is nearing the completion of one such clean-coal power plant, which reportedly has a system in place to guarantee efficiency and has in-built recycling processes. The plant will be able to convert the nitrous oxide emissions into ammonia, which will then be sold. The plant is facing criticism from citizen’s groups who are skeptical about its reduced environmental impact.