Coal’s next life: Synthetic fuels, green energy and the transition challenge

Coal has long supported industrial progress, boosting economic growth and sustaining communities worldwide. As the energy landscape moves toward sustainability and technological advancement, these changes have presented numerous opportunities and challenges for the coal industry.

Rather than signalling the end of traditional operations, the transition embraces innovative uses for coal, including synthetic fuels and green energy. Leaders can leverage their knowledge and infrastructure to shape the future of energy while maintaining the purpose and resilience of coal.

Synthetic fuels – A new purpose for coal? 

Synthetic fuels are liquid or gaseous fuels derived from coal, biomass or other crude sources. With the assistance of new technologies, the coal industry can utilise existing resources and infrastructure to convert coal into these liquids and gases.

The US Department of Defence has tested synthetic military aviation fuels, as researchers in Germany and NATO have explored whether they are compatible with legacy equipment. The synthetic fuels, generated from advanced processes, integrate with current architectures and facilitate a pathway to carbon neutrality.

With further technological advancements, coal-based synthetic fuels could prove valuable in the world’s transition to green energy.

Repurposing coal assets for green energy integration

Former coal sites are undergoing repurposing for solar, wind and hydrogen production. Illinois has plans to convert 11 decommissioned coal power plants into solar farms, while Minnesota’s Sherco solar and energy storage facility will become the fifth-largest in the US.

The projects demonstrate the extraordinary adaptability of existing infrastructure. Cutting-edge carbon capture and storage technologies also provide new opportunities to retrofit coal assets for cleaner modes of operation.

However, revolutionising these sites for green energy is not a simple task. For instance, the Fort Hills Oil Sands in Northern Alberta, Canada, produces 14 500 metric t of oil sand hourly and 194,000 barrels per day, highlighting the formidable scale of such high-stakes endeavours. Coal professionals must thoroughly evaluate the feasibility and barriers to greener outputs.

Transition challenges and strategic recommendations

Global policies widely support phasing out fossil fuels. The Paris Agreement encourages 196 countries to set ambitious targets to reduce carbon dioxide and expand renewable energy integration. The frameworks are beneficial in helping the coal industry navigate changes for a sustainable future.

Several challenges are ongoing in the coal transition, including restructuring the workforce for green energy, local economic instability and an evolving regulatory landscape. Approximately 15 million people have been affected by the phaseouts of coal and power plants – three-quarters of whom earn less than the national median household income. However, the changes open doors for growth and innovation.

Coal professionals possess technical skills that are highly transferable to synthetic fuels, renewable energy and advanced power generation. Retraining individuals in these areas allows them to flourish. Staying informed about the latest regulations, opportunities, and incentives enables professionals to adapt and capitalise on their existing experience and strengths.

Embracing change for a sustainable future

Change is inevitable as the world seeks to replace fossil fuels, but the coal industry doesn’t have to get left behind. As the energy sector looks ahead toward cleaner power sources, opportunities in synthetic fuels enable coal professionals to position themselves as leaders in the transition.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/coal/20112025/coals-next-life-synthetic-fuels-green-energy-and-the-transition-challenge/