WHAT IF EVERYTHING YOU KNEW ABOUT COAL AND CLIMATE CHANGE WAS ONLY HALF THE STORY?
Monica Y. Marin
Stop burning money in coal facilities while saving the planet| Boosting your reputation | Avoiding future government penalties by creating unique energy strategies|Energy Efficiency Specialist |Speaker|Coach|Author
Coal has long been painted as the villain of electricity generation.
As the largest single source of carbon dioxide emissions globally, and contributing more than 30% of current power generation, it’s easy to see why coal often tops the list of environmental concerns.
The issue is this controversial energy source will be used in the future as well.
Reports from the International Energy Agency (IEA) indicate that despite global efforts to reduce coal dependency, demand has reached an all-time high of 8.77 billion tonnes in 2024, with projections showing a potential plateau rather than a decline through 2027. But, not just under my perspective, also Lomborg (2020) could will still play an important role on global energy mix for the comming century.
The continued reliance on coal, particularly in emerging economies like China and India, poses a significant challenge to global climate goal, at least how we have been said in the past years.
It is common to see coal-fired power plants as relics of the past, incompatible with a sustainable future.
Yet, the reality is far more complex.
Coal still provides a substantial portion of the world’s electricity, ensuring grid stability and energy security in many regions, including Colombia, a nation which majority of energy comes from renewables. Completely phasing out coal without viable alternatives could jeopardize economic stability, especially in coal-dependent regions and other than contribute to global energy, like Colombia.
Demonizing coal oversimplifies the issue and overlooks a critical opportunity:
energy efficiency.
Instead of focusing solely on elimination, we must look at how we use coal more responsibly.
Energy efficiency in coal-based power plants can significantly reduce emissions while providing the energy security that developing nations depend on.
According to the World Energy Outlook 2024, improving the efficiency of existing coal plants could reduce global CO2 emissions by up to 15% without sacrificing energy supply. Moreover, adaptation strategies focusing on operational improvements and technological upgrades are cost-effective solutions compared to rapid coal phase-outs.
Egypt offers a prime example. During the Egypt Petroleum and Energy Efficiency Conference (EPEEC) 2019, the country showcased how implementing robust energy management systems across multiple sites led to substantial energy savings and CO2 reductions.
This approach highlights how developing economies can prioritize efficiency without compromising growth.
Energy efficiency isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a practical, immediate solution.
Here’s how coal-dependent industries can turn this challenge into an opportunity:
WHY THIS MATTERS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION
Energy efficiency in coal plants serves dual purposes.
It mitigates climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and acts as an adaptation strategy by ensuring energy systems are resilient, reliable, and cost-effective amid growing demand.
The IEA emphasizes that without rapid efficiency improvements, the path to net-zero emissions becomes significantly narrower.
We used to think that adaptation measures imply enourmous costs and efforts, but probable more practical and realistc measures like energy efficiency can bring more benefits when properly implemented.
For end coal users, like thermal plants, cement industry, steel makers, and other coal end users this is not just about compliance; it’s about opportunity. Efficiency upgrades often pay for themselves through fuel savings and lower operational costs. More importantly, they provide a pathway to sustainable operations that can secure long-term viability in an increasingly carbon-conscious world.
Ready to take the first step towards a smarter, more efficient energy strategy?
Visit my website www.monicaymarin.com to explore how tailored solutions can help you navigate the complexities of energy efficiency in coal-based power generation.
Let’s transform challenges into opportunities together.
Coal may have been cast as the villain, but with the right strategies, it can become part of the solution. By embracing energy efficiency, we can mitigate climate impacts, adapt to future energy needs, and pave the way for a more sustainable world.
The time to act is now.
Reflecting reading: