BELLS UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

NAME: OSHINEYE ABEEB OLADIPUPO

MATRIC NO: 2022/11866

DEPARTMENT: ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

COURSE CODE: ENG 206

TABLE OF CONTENTS

0 Introduction

 Background and significance of coal-based power generation

 Overview of the objectives and structure of the paper

1 Advantages of Coal-Based Power Generation

 Abundant and widely available energy resource

 Economic benefits and energy security

 Technological advancements in coal power plants

2 Environmental Impacts of coal-based power generation

 Greenhouse gas emissions and climate change

 Air pollution and human health impacts

  Land degradation and habitat destruction

3 Mitigation and Regulation Efforts

 Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies

 Renewable energy alternatives and their potential

 Environmental regulations and policy framework

 4 Conclusion

INTRODUCTION

Coal has long been a dominant source of power generation, fuelling economic growth and meeting energy

demands worldwide. However, the environmental consequences of coal-based power generation have raised

concerns due to its significant greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and adverse effects on ecosystems.

This paper aims to provide a concise overview of the impact of coal-based power generation on the

environment by examining its advantages and disadvantages. By evaluating the economic benefits, energy

security, and technological advancements associated with coal, alongside the detrimental effects on climate

change, air quality, and ecological balance, we gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex

environmental dynamics surrounding coal power. By exploring both the advantages and disadvantages of

coal-based power generation, this paper aims to present a balanced perspective on its environmental impact.

The findings illustrate that while coal has contributed significantly to global energy demands, its adverse

effects on climate change, air quality, and ecosystems cannot be ignored. Transitioning towards cleaner and

renewable energy sources is crucial to mitigate these environmental consequences and ensure a sustainable
future. Policymakers, industries, and individuals must work together to accelerate the development and

adoption of alternative energy solutions to reduce our reliance on coal and safeguard the environment for

future generations.

ADVANTAGES OF COAL- BASED POWER GENERATION

 Abundant and widely available energy source: Because of its unlimited availability, coal has been

a major source of renewable energy used for various purposes such as: to power coal trains and in

making coal tars which has its use in making roads. Coal is relatively cheap and can therefore be

afforded by even the least class citizens.

 Economic benefits and energy security: The coal industry creates a lot of job opportunities and

serves as a reliable source of income for a lot of people. Also, Countries with ample coal reserves

can enhance their energy security by relying on domestic coal production thereby reducing

dependence on imported energy sources which mitigates vulnerability to geopolitical risks and price

fluctuations.

 Technological advancements in coal power plants: Advanced technologies such as supercritical

and ultra-supercritical coal-fired power plants have significantly increased the efficiency of coal

combustion, resulting in higher electricity generation with reduced fuel consumption. Also, the

development of advanced pollution control systems, including electrostatic precipitators, scrubbers,

and selective catalytic reduction (SCR), has enabled coal power plants to mitigate air pollutants such

as sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSOCIATED TO COAL-BASED POWER GENERATION

 Greenhouse gas emissions and climate change: Coal combustion releases large amounts of CO2, a

major greenhouse gas. The accumulation of CO2 in the atmosphere traps heat, leading to global

warming (exacerbating climate change impacts such as rising temperatures, sea-level rise, and

extreme weather events).

 Air pollution and human health impacts: Coal combustion releases toxic metals such as mercury,

arsenic, and lead, which can accumulate in the environment and contaminate water sources.

Exposure to these pollutants can cause neurological, and developmental health issues. Also, Coal

contains sulphur, and its combustion emits sulphur dioxide, a major contributor to acid rain. SO2 can

irritate the respiratory system, exacerbate asthma, and contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular

diseases.

 Land degradation and habitat destruction: Coal mining often requires the clearing of large areas

of land, leading to deforestation and the loss of natural habitats. This clearance disrupts ecosystems,

displaces wildlife, and reduces biodiversity. Mining activities also accommodate acid mine drainage,

a phenomenon where water becomes acidic and carries heavy metals and toxic substances. This

drainage contaminates nearby water sources, impacting aquatic ecosystems and posing risks to

human and wildlife health.

MITIGATION AND REGULATION EFFORTS AGAINST COAL-BASED POWER

GENERATION

 Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies: CCS has the potential to significantly reduce

CO2 emissions from coal power plants, making them more environmentally friendly and aligning

with emission reduction targets. Also, Captured CO2 is transported and stored underground in
 geological formations, such as depleted oil and gas fields or saline aquifers, ensuring long-term

storage and preventing CO2 from re-entering the atmosphere.

Continued research and development in CCS technologies are crucial to improving efficiency, reducing

costs, and expanding its deployment to help achieve global emission reduction goals and transition to a low-

carbon economy.

 Renewable energy alternatives and their potential: Below is an explained list of other renewable

energy sources that can serve to replace coal as an energy source:

I. Solar Power: Solar energy harnesses the power of sunlight through photovoltaic (PV) panels or

concentrated solar power (CSP) systems. Its potential lies in its abundant availability, scalability, and

potential for decentralized generation, making it suitable for both utility-scale installations and

distributed applications.

II. Wind Power: Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy of the wind into electricity. Wind power has

vast potential, particularly in regions with consistent wind resources. Offshore wind farms offer even

greater potential due to higher wind speeds and less visual impact.

III. Biomass Energy: Biomass energy is derived from organic matter, such as agricultural residues,

wood pellets, or dedicated energy crops. It can be used for electricity generation, heating, or biofuels.

Biomass has the advantage of being a dispatchable and potentially carbon-neutral energy source

when sustainably sourced.

IV. Geothermal Energy: Geothermal power utilizes the heat from the Earth's core to generate

electricity. It has immense potential in regions with geothermal resources, providing a reliable and

baseload renewable energy option.

 Environmental regulations and policy frameworks: Below is a list of environmental policies put

together to curb the effects of coal:

I. Environmental Impact Assessments: Policy frameworks often require comprehensive

environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for coal projects. EIAs evaluate potential environmental
 risks and impacts, ensuring that coal-based power generation activities are conducted with adequate

safeguards and mitigation measures.

II. International Agreements: International agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, aim to combat

climate change and promote sustainable development. These agreements foster global cooperation,

encourage countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, and drive the adoption of renewable

energy technologies.

III. Carbon Pricing and Trading: Carbon pricing mechanisms, such as carbon taxes or cap-and-trade

systems, place a financial cost on greenhouse gas emissions. These policies encourage industries to

reduce their emissions, incentivize investment in low-carbon technologies, and create economic

opportunities for renewable energy development.

IV. Emission Standards: Environmental regulations set emission limits for pollutants such as sulfur

dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. These standards encourage the

adoption of cleaner technologies, promote pollution control measures, and help reduce the

environmental impact of coal power plants.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, coal as a means of power generation possesses both advantages and disadvantages. It is an

abundant and widely available energy resource that has played a significant role in meeting global energy

demands for centuries. Coal provides baseload power, offers economic benefits through job creation and

energy security, and leverages existing infrastructure.

However, the use of coal for power generation has significant drawbacks. It contributes to greenhouse gas

emissions, air pollution, land degradation, and habitat destruction. These impacts pose severe risks to human

health, exacerbate climate change, and harm ecosystems.

As the world moves towards a more sustainable and low-carbon energy future, it is crucial to carefully

consider the environmental and health consequences of coal-based power generation. Transitioning to
cleaner energy alternatives, such as solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal, along with implementing

carbon capture and storage technologies, can help mitigate these concerns.

To achieve a sustainable energy sector, governments, industries, and society at large must collaborate to

develop and implement effective policies, regulations, and investments that prioritize renewable energy

sources, energy efficiency, and environmental protection. By doing so, we can strike a balance between

meeting energy needs and safeguarding our environment for future generations.

Regenerate response

1. Introduction

 and significance of coal-based power generation

 Overview of the objectives and structure of the paper

2. Advantages of Coal-Based Power Generation

 Abundant and widely available energy resource

  Economic benefits and energy security

 Technological advancements in coal power plants

3. Disadvantages of Coal-Based Power Generation

 Greenhouse gas emissions and climate change

 Air pollution and human health impacts

 Water usage and contamination

 Land degradation and habitat destruction

4. Environmental Impacts

 Climate change and carbon dioxide emissions

 Air pollution and particulate matter

 Water consumption and contamination

 Land disturbance and ecosystem destruction

5. Mitigation and Regulation Efforts

 Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies

 Renewable energy alternatives and their potential

  Environmental regulations and policy frameworks

6. Conclusion

 Summarize the key points discussed in the paper

 Highlight the need for a transition towards cleaner

and sustainable energy sources

 Emphasize the importance of policy interventions

and technological innovation

By exploring both the advantages and disadvantages of coal-

based power generation, this paper aims to present a balanced

perspective on its environmental impact. The findings

illustrate that while coal has contributed significantly to

global energy demands, its adverse effects on climate change,

air quality, and ecosystems cannot be ignored. Transitioning

towards cleaner and renewable energy sources is crucial to

mitigate these environmental consequences and ensure a

sustainable future. Policymakers, industries, and individuals

must work together to accelerate the development and

adoption of alternative energy solutions to reduce our reliance

on coal and safeguard the environment for future generations.

7. Introduction

 Background and significance of coal-based power

generation

 Overview of the objectives and structure of the

8. Advantages of Coal-Based Power Generation

 Abundant and widely available energy resource

 Economic benefits and energy security

 Technological advancements in coal power plants

9. Disadvantages of Coal-Based Power Generation

  Greenhouse gas emissions and climate change

 Air pollution and human health impacts

 Water usage and contamination

 Land degradation and habitat destruction

10. Environmental Impacts

 Climate change and carbon dioxide emissions

 Air pollution and particulate matter

 Water consumption and contamination

 Land disturbance and ecosystem destruction

11. Mitigation and Regulation Efforts

 Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies

 Renewable energy alternatives and their potential

 Environmental regulations and policy frameworks

12. Conclusion

 Summarize the key points discussed in the paper

  Highlight the need for a transition towards cleaner

and sustainable energy sources

 Emphasize the importance of policy interventions

and technological innovation

By exploring both the advantages and disadvantages of coal-

based power generation, this paper aims to present a balanced

perspective on its environmental impact. The findings

illustrate that while coal has contributed significantly to

global energy demands, its adverse effects on climate change,

air quality, and ecosystems cannot be ignored. Transitioning

towards cleaner and renewable energy sources is crucial to

mitigate these environmental consequences and ensure a

sustainable future. Policymakers, industries, and individuals

must work together to accelerate the development and

adoption of alternative energy solutions to reduce our reliance

on coal and safeguard the environment for future generations.