They don't seem to realize they are chasing a moving target. Coal is not at end of life cycle and testing is in process that could show a 60% increase of power output per ton of coal in a few years, with a corresponding decrease in pollutants, putting coal pollution on par with nat gas. This will also extend the use of coal resources and make lower grades (lignite) much more useful.
The one issue I have with coal is Mercury. The current technology and the need for very expensive removal equipment has led to some really nasty results. There are mts in NY where there is no life at all, and the mercury levels are way up there, all airborne from the Ohio Valley. I was amazed at the data they had on it.
There is a process in testing overseas that may solve this problem. Haven't talked to the scientist in about 6 months, but he was building a demo unit when we talked. (He asked me to market it for him in the US.)
Coal is not at end of life cycle and testing is in process that could show a 60% increase of power output per ton of coal in a few years, with a corresponding decrease in pollutants, putting coal pollution on par with nat gas.
This will also extend the use of coal resources and make lower grades (lignite) much more useful.