In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Zhongguo dianli’ (China Electric Power), researchers led by Fahua Zhu of the China Energy Science and Technology Research Institute have shed light on the transformative impact of ultra-low emission and energy-saving retrofits in China’s coal-fired power plants. The findings, spanning from 2013 to 2019, reveal a staggering reduction in emissions despite significant increases in installed capacity and power generation.
The study highlights that while the installed capacity and actual power generation of thermal power sector in China increased by 36.7% and 19.5% respectively, the emissions of smoke dust, SO2, and NOx decreased by 87.3%, 88.6%, and 88.8% respectively. This dramatic improvement in air quality is a testament to the effectiveness of ultra-low emission technologies. “The power consumption rate of plants for the thermal power sector in China remained at 6.01%, and the net coal consumption decreased from 321 g/(kW·h) to 306.4 g/(kW·h),” Zhu noted, emphasizing the economic and environmental benefits of these retrofits.
The research underscores the critical role of stringent emission standards, technological innovation, and economic incentives in driving these successes. Zhu emphasized that “the top-level design and continuous promotion is the key part of flue gas control project, while the technical breakthrough and normalized application ensure the success with the emphasis on the environmental protection electricity pricing and the related incentive policy.” This approach has not only reduced emissions but also demonstrated economic benefits, making a compelling case for similar initiatives in other industrial sectors.
The study also warns against the blind promotion of carbon capture projects, advocating for a more measured approach. “Unless there are significant decrease of energy consumption, cost and risk, carbon capture project should not be popularized blindly,” Zhu cautioned. This perspective is particularly relevant as the world grapples with the challenges of achieving carbon peak and carbon neutrality.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For the energy sector, it underscores the viability of ultra-low emission technologies and the need for continuous innovation and economic incentives. As other industries look to reduce their carbon footprint, the experiences of China’s coal-fired power plants offer a roadmap for achieving significant emission reductions while maintaining economic viability. The study serves as a call to action for policymakers and industry leaders to prioritize energy-saving retrofits and to carefully consider the economic and environmental trade-offs of carbon capture technologies.
