a big step backwards... europe turns to coal

Today, the New York Times reported what at first seemed to be a sure misprint: Europe Turns Back to Coal, Raising Climate Fears. Yes, in spite of the European Union's progressive actions to ensure sustainable and carbon-neutral development, the rising cost of oil and natural gas (a 151% increase since 1996 in Italy), combined with a shift away from nuclear power (nuclear plants have been banned in Italy and Germany) have resulted in several countries making plans to expand coal production.

The spotlight in this new trend falls mainly on Italy, whose main energy provider, Enel, has announced that it will increase the percent of electricity coming from coal-fired plants from the current level of 14% to 33% in the next five years. The first new plant is slated to open in just two months, affirming the sober reality of Italy's shift to coal. Those who support the opening of new coal-fired power plants claim that the new plants will be devoted to "clean coal". Upon closer examination of this term, however, it is evident that "clean coal" plants do not necessarily emit less carbon dioxide than other coal plants. Particulate matter (soot), sulfur dioxide and nitrous oxide emissions are reduced using the newer technology, but the impact on CO2 emissions is "minimal", according to the New York Times.

In addressing the impact that new coal plants will have on the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, proponents of new coal development point to the potential of carbon capture and storage, where carbon could be captured as it leaves the smokestack, and then stored in underground reservoirs left vacant by oil extraction (see the February 19 and April 3 posts on this blog). The reality is, however, that this technique has not been developed to the point of utility yet, and even if it does become a viable option, it will be extremely expensive. Considering European countries are shifting to coal-fired power because of economic strains, it seems unlikely that they will be willing to shell out billions of extra dollars to fund the research, development, implementation and installation of carbon capture and storage technology. Also, many new plants coming online worldwide are not even being built with the proper infrastructure to accommodate this technology, should it become available.

Coal energy is the dirtiest option available in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. This new development in the global energy arena is nothing but bad news.