What are the reasons for replacing some coal-fired power plants with natural gas power plants?

Many factors are driving coal’s decline. Environmental concerns, economically competitive renewable energy, and declining profitability are only a few. To successfully navigate these trends, power plants are increasingly making the switch from coal to natural gas to produce electricity.

Is LNG better for the environment?

LNG is the cleanest fossil fuel. In the context of the current energy transition sought by the European Commission, it represents an excellent alternative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help combat global warming.

How does coal-fired power plant affect climate change?

Coal is the single biggest contributor to anthropogenic climate change. The burning of coal is responsible for 46\% of carbon dioxide emissions worldwide and accounts for 72\% of total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the electricity sector. This means that the age of coal must soon come to an end.

Why has natural gas replaced coal?

The decision for plants to switch from coal to natural gas was driven by stricter emission standards, low natural gas prices, and more efficient new natural gas turbine technology. Two different methods are used to switch coal-fired plants to natural gas.

How many coal-fired plants did China build in 2020?

Key findings include: China commissioned 38.4 GW of new coal plants in 2020, over three times the 11.9 GW commissioned in the rest of the world.

Does LNG replace coal?

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is lauded as a transition fuel, a replacement for coal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming.

Is LNG better for the environment than coal?

LNG releases 45-50\% less CO2 than coal, 30\% less CO2 than fuel oil, dramatically reduces nitrogen oxide emissions, does not emit soot, dust or fumes, and produces insignificant amounts of sulfur dioxide, mercury, and other particulates compared to other fuels.