Japanese technology aimed at curbing carbon emissions from existing coal-fired power plants by introducing ammonia as a substitute for coal is set to undergo testing at a commercial plant later this month, marking a significant step towards its implementation.
JERA, the largest power generator in Japan, along with engineering company IHI, is gearing up for a groundbreaking attempt to generate electricity by burning a blend of coal and ammonia at JERA’s coal plant in Aichi prefecture, central Japan.
The innovative technology offers a notable advantage by potentially providing cleaner power while still utilizing existing coal-fired plants. This approach is particularly significant as the phasing out of such plants, essential for tackling climate change, could take decades. Japan hopes that its ammonia fuel technology will attract customers in developing Asian countries, where newer coal plants are prevalent, to meet rising energy demands.
Ammonia, currently used primarily for fertilizer production or industrial purposes, emits no carbon when burned, making it an attractive alternative fuel.
Initially, JERA plans to use ammonia to produce 20% of the energy required to power one of the five generators at its Hekinan Thermal Power Station, with the ultimate goal of achieving a 50% ammonia-coal mixture and transitioning to a power plant solely fueled by ammonia.
The companies have been retrofitting the Hekinan power station in preparation for the experiment, equipping the site with storage tanks for ammonia and pipelines for transportation. The next phase involves assessing the safety and reliability of power generated by the 20% ammonia mixture until June. JERA aims to integrate the technology into regular operations by around 2027, with plans to test a 50% ammonia fuel mixture the following year.
However, challenges remain, including the extent of retrofitting needed as the proportion of ammonia increases and controlling emissions of nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas produced during ammonia combustion.
Despite these challenges and some skepticism, Japanese companies and the government continue to seek partnerships in Asia. They believe the technology can aid coal-dependent Asian countries in decarbonization efforts while sustaining economic growth.
Efforts to lower the cost of the technology are underway, with public-private cooperation and international collaboration playing crucial roles in its development and adoption.
The ongoing testing and potential deployment of ammonia-coal technology underscore Japan’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, with implications for global efforts to reduce carbon emissions from the power sector.
