In order to generate electricity from coal, the proven steam process is almost exclusively used. Lignite and black coal are sufficiently available worldwide and at relatively stable prices. The fuels currently make the largest contribution to global electricity generation. Around 41% of the approximately 20 trillion kilowatts of electricity required worldwide in 2008 was generated in conventional coal-fired power plants. In Germany this value is around 42%.
Projects currently being funded
CO2 storage facilities
CO2 capture in oxyfuel coal-fired power plants
Higher pressure and lower flow losses in turbines
Capturing CO2 using coal gasification
CO2 scrubbing (post-combustion capture)
Hydrogen gas turbines
Higher temperatures in turbines
CO2 capture using lime or metal (looping)
Separating gases using membranes
Lignite drying
More flexibility for low-emission coal-fired power plants
International cooperation
More efficient generators thanks to nanoparticles
Micro gas turbines
Turbine combustion that produces lower amounts of harmful substances
CO2 compressors
Comparison of power plant systems
Efficiency of over 60% for the Irsching gas and steam power plant
Materials of construction for steam temperatures of over 700 °C
Storing electricity using compressed air
High-temperature heat storage systems for flexible CCGT power plants