Collie coal perfect for low-emission energy

The development of clean coal technology has taken a major step forward in...

  The development of clean coal technology has taken a major step forward in Western Australia following the successful international testing of the gasification of Collie coal.The research was undertaken by the CRC for Coal in Sustainable Development (CCSD) through its participant, CSIRO Energy Technology, in Brisbane. Part of the study was conducted at the Siemens Gasification Test Facility in Freiberg, Germany.CCSD Chief Executive Officer, Frank van Schagen said the outcomes of the study were very significant for Australia’s coal future. “Australia now has a world-class centre of gasification research capability, which works closely with international research and technology development organisations,” Mr van Schagen said.“Facilities and expertise now exist which allow measurement and interpretation of fundamental aspects of the coal gasification process, as well as application of these findings to coal performance in large-scale systems,” he said.Western Australian Energy, Resources and Industry and Enterprise Minister, Francis Logan said that coal from Collie was one of the most suitable coals for gasification in Australia. Mr Logan said the international testing results gave credence to the idea of using clean coal technologies in power generation and proved that WA could be at the forefront of its development. “I am very pleased with the results of the gasification potential of Collie’s coal,” Mr Logan said.“Coal gasification offers one of the most versatile and clean ways to convert coal into electricity and other valuable energy and chemical products. “The significance is that we are moving towards viewing coal as a box of chemicals that can provide multiple benefits, rather than purely as a black feedstock for power generation,” he said.Mr Logan said the study would allow Western Australia to progress with its commitment to look at clean coal technology as one of the State’s power generation methods.