Concerns Arise Over South Korea's Plan to Co-Fire Coal Plants with Ammonia
A recent analysis cautions that South Korea's proposal to co-fire coal plants with ammonia may lead to the release of thousands of tons of toxic gas and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), known for causing respiratory issues and genetic dysfunctions. Despite the absence of carbon dioxide emissions, burning ammonia could potentially release harmful particles. The two organizations, Solutions for Our Climate and Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, are urging South Korea to divest from coal and hasten the transition to renewable energy sources. This is critical as South Korea heavily relies on coal, with 34% of its electricity generation originating from coal in 2021. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy is planning to co-fire about half of the nation’s coal-fired generation with 20% ammonia by 2030, potentially leading to a more than 50% increase in fine dust emissions in the Chungnam province.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea's intention to co-fire coal plants with ammonia could result in the release of toxic gas and fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
- Although burning ammonia does not emit carbon dioxide, it does release harmful particles, according to a report from Solutions for Our Climate and Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air.
- The reluctance of South Korea and Japan to transition from coal-fired generation due to potential write-downs on newer plants could impede progress towards cleaner energy sources.
- South Korea's heavy reliance on coal, accounting for 34% of power generation in 2021, underscores the importance of timely transition to renewables.
- The proposed ammonia co-firing may lead to a significant surge in fine dust emissions in the Chungnam province, with an anticipated increase by over 50% to 8,430 metric tons.
Analysis
South Korea's proposal to co-fire coal plants with ammonia raises profound environmental and health concerns, potentially releasing substantial amounts of toxic gas and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). This situation could directly impact organizations advocating for renewable energy, such as Solutions for Our Climate and Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air. The hesitance of South Korea and Japan to shift from coal-fired generation may pose an impediment to cleaner energy sources and exacerbate the environmental ramifications. In the short term, the Chungnam province might face a notable escalation in fine dust emissions, while the long-term consequences may encompass increased healthcare expenditures and potential international scrutiny of South Korea's environmental policies. This scenario could prompt countries, financial institutions, and industries with a stake in clean energy to consider investing in renewable alternatives for South Korea.
Did You Know?
- Co-firing: This involves the practice of simultaneously burning two or more fuels in a power plant. In the context of South Korea's plan, ammonia will be co-fired with coal in its coal-fired power plants to mitigate CO2 emissions from the plants by substituting some coal with ammonia, which does not emit CO2 when burned.
- PM2.5: Refers to "particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less." These minute particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, potentially causing various health issues, including respiratory problems and genetic dysfunctions. Burning ammonia can release PM2.5, posing a concern for public health.
- Write-downs: This accounting term denotes the reduction in the book value of an asset. In the context of the news article, the mention of "potential write-downs on newer plants" implies that if South Korea and Japan shift away from coal-fired generation, they may have to devalue their newer coal plants, resulting in financial losses.