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Impact of coal quality on the cost of electrical power generation: A technoeconomic model
Author(s) -
Ugursal V. I.,
Al Taweel A. M.,
Mackay G. D. M.
Publication year - 1990
Publication title -
international journal of energy research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.808
H-Index - 95
eISSN - 1099-114X
pISSN - 0363-907X
DOI - 10.1002/er.4440140609
Subject(s) - coal , environmental economics , electricity , cost of electricity by source , electricity generation , engineering , mains electricity , waste management , process engineering , power (physics) , physics , electrical engineering , quantum mechanics , voltage , economics
The paper describes a computer based technoeconomic model that can accurately predict the impact of coal quality and other key variables on the busbar cost of electricity generated by new power plants. The model, IMPACT, focuses on the four major cost sectors of the coal‐to‐electricity chain: transportation, power plant, post combustion particulate and SO 2 emission controls, and waste disposal. Technically and economically established technologies in each sector are included in the model to facilitate a comprehensive evaluation of possible strategies. The user can select any combination of these technologies and evaluate the consequent impact on the busbar cost of electricity. Different strategies can be examined by selecting different options or through sensitivity analyses by changing coal or system parameters. IMPACT is structured to reflect regional and national cost differences by the use of appropriate cost indexes and site‐specific cost parameters; it is, therefore, independent of location. IMPACT is a flexible and powerful decision making tool that can be used for a variety of purposes such as exploring the various avenues open to a utility in the selection of a coal supply, or evaluating various emission control and waste disposal strategies, energy supply alternatives and utility expansion options. The model can also be used to determine the realistic value of a coal and optimal beneficiation levels; it can therefore be used by coal producers in the preparation of competitive bids.