Integrated Coal Gasification Combined Cycle: A Reality, Not a Dream
Publication: Journal of Energy Engineering
Volume 142, Issue 2
Abstract
Coal is a very important fuel for power generation because of its abundant reserves, stable prices, and widely distributed countries of origin. However, coal firing emits carbon dioxide more than other fuels do, which is not desirable from the standpoint of preventing global warming. The only practical and economical solution to this dilemma is to raise plant efficiency. For over a century, power plants have been on the basis of the Rankine cycle. Currently, a combined cycle is commercially utilized and plant efficiency has greatly improved. A natural gas combined cycle is now almost a standard. Then why is it not applicable for coal? A coal-fired combined cycle, the so-called integrated coal gasification combined cycle (IGCC), has long been desired and several large-scale units are in operation. This paper will discuss the current situation of IGCC technology, reflecting on the lessons learned from past IGCC projects and reviewing key points for successful commercialization of IGCC on the basis of experiences with IGCC in Japan, and will provide a suggestion that is applicable worldwide.
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Published In
Journal of Energy Engineering
Volume 142 • Issue 2 • June 2016
Copyright
© 2015 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: May 20, 2015
Accepted: Jul 23, 2015
Published online: Dec 30, 2015
Discussion open until: May 30, 2016
Published in print: Jun 1, 2016
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