Coal quality. Designing a power plant for a wide range or dedicated coal supply

This paper presents a discussion and analysis of the impact of coal quality on plant design and cost. In deciding to proceed with a new plant, the most important decision to be made should be the source of the coal. Plant design should be based upon detailed coal and ash analysis data, since the coal quality affects major plant equipment and systems. Flexibility in coal purchasing from various suppliers should be permitted, thus utilizing the coal market situation to the best advantage of achieving the lowest bus bar energy costs, with the exception of mine mouth plants. It is shown that there is not a significant increase in plant capital and operating cost when designing a plant for a wide range of eastern coals. It is concluded that the best strategy is the purchasing of a substantial portion of the coal on a long-term basis from dedicated sources. Coal contracts must include more comprehensive bonus/penalty clauses on quality.