A just transition pathway for the coal industry from its ashes

Abstract

The challenge of conciliating global decarbonization efforts with socio-economic welfare in coal-dependent regions calls for innovative approaches for just transitions. This study proposes a circular industrial system that integrates CO₂ capture through Temperature Swing Adsorption (TSA) with large-scale zeolite production from coal ash, while directing surplus zeolites to Bioenergy with CO₂ Capture and Storage (BECCS) plants to achieve carbon dioxide removal (CDR). A comprehensive techno-economic analysis was conducted to evaluate the system’s performance and feasibility. Results indicate that TSA technology, while exhibiting slightly better energy performance, incurs higher costs compared to chemical absorption. Coal ash from a single power plant can yield up to 78 kt of zeolites annually, of which 15 % is required for CO₂ capture at the coal plant, leaving surplus production to support up to four BECCS plants with a combined power capacity of 2.5 GW. These BECCS plants could generate 13 TWh of electricity annually and deliver 13 MtCO₂ of CDR. Zeolites production can support a just transition framework in coal-dependent regions, by creating more than double of local jobs and generating almost as much revenue as the coal power plant. Still, future studies are needed for improving the assessment of its socio-economic and environmental implications.