Technologies to Reduce or Capture and Store Carbon Dioxide Emissions

In China, for example, a major analysis published by the Chinese Academy of Social Science in
July 2006 concluded:
“Advanced combustion power generation technology, developed by
the United States, would increase efficiency and lower the volume
of sulfur dioxide and soot emission to one tenth of the standard.”
Energy Development Report of China
This continuing reliance on coal to meet rising electricity demand will significantly increase coal
consumption. In 2003, the world used 5.4 billion tons of coal, but by 2030 usage will reach over
10.5 billion tons – an increase of 95 percent. China will account for 60 percent of the global
increase in coal consumption through 2030.
billion short tons
12.0
10.0
8.0
6.0
4.0
2.0
0.0
10.6
8.6
7.0
5.3 5.4
4.1
1980 1990 2003 2010 2020 2030
Figure 1-6: World Coal Consumption
Data Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, International Energy Outlook
Coal’s Crucial Role in U.S. Generation
In the United States, coal has been the workhorse of power generation for decades. Electricity
consumption in the U.S. is projected to grow 53 percent through 2030 and coal-based generation
will continue to be the cornerstone of U.S. supply:
Other
Nuclear
Natural Gas
2004
2030
Coal
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%
Figure 1-7: Coal as the Continuing Core of Electricity 4
June 2007 23