The future of coal lies in emerging economies

Emerging regions hold the best hope for the continued use of coal-fired power, as coal-based generation will decline rapidly in North America and Europe as new emissions regulations come into operation, according to a new report from Frost & Sullivan. In contrast, gas-fired power generation will increase in importance across the globe.

Despite this boom in gas-fired power, coal will remain the dominant source of power in 2030, accounting for 34% of electricity generation. Total global installed power generation capacity will reach 9266 GW by 2030, rising from 5640 GW this year.

There will also be strong growth in renewable energy with North America and Asia outpacing Europe, which up to now has lead the world in the development of renewable energy sources. However, weak power demand and government austerity drives will cut back the support the region is able to offer to renewable power generation, allowing other regions to forge ahead.

Carbon-free power generation is expected to account for 42% of global capacity by 2030.

Written by Jonathan Rowland.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/power/21112014/world-coal-the-future-of-coal-lies-in-emerging-economies-1603/