A Comparative Study on Methods used in Life Cycle Assessment of Coal-Fired Power Plant

Abstract

Coal, a fossil fuel, has been one of the most prominent sources of energy throughout the globe. Alongside its many blessings of being a reliable energy source, it has some curses, including global warming and air, water pollution, and environmental impacts. Born from ancient flora, decaying through epochs past, carbon-laden, fuelling eons in a vast contrast. Anthracite, bituminous, a trove of diverse grades, a worldwide energy titan, but with environmental shades. This study explores into the intricate impacts of coal-fired power plants, navigating the intersection of energy demand, environmental responsibility, and the historical legacy of this carbon-rich resource. In doing so, it employs the “cradle-to-gate” method of life cycle assessments (LCA), a well-researched approach that scrutinizes the entire life cycle of coal-fired power generation. During all three stages, fuel extraction, fuel transportation, and plant operation, basic hotspots of pollution are identified and their adverse effects on the environment are looked into. An analysis of a 530 MW power plant in China has been considered. This report uses both CML (Centrum voor Milieukunde Leiden) 2001 (Baseline) and ReCiPe Midpoint (H) analyses to conduct a detailed comparative examination of the environmental implications of the plant’s operation in addition to only the electricity generation. Climate change, freshwater aquatic ecotoxicity, acidification potential, marine aquatic ecotoxicity, etc are some of the hazards identified during the study. A better scientific approach following standard guidance and efficient management can help to mitigate the pollution caused. The article presents the results of studies of the diverse impact of coal generation on the environment and discusses the most environmentally friendly methods of using this type of fuel to generate electricity.