A comparative study of emissions from coal-fired power stations in South Africa and other selected countries

M.Sc.Worldwide, coal is one of the major sources of energy. In 1999 it was estimated that the global electricity generation from coal was about 36% of the total world electricity production (Knapp, 1999:11). With the combustion of coal for electricity generation however, negative environmental impacts occur. These are mainly caused by carbon dioxide, nitrous oxides, sulphur dioxide and particulate matter emissions. With an ever-growing global population, the need and demand for electricity is increasing. These needs and demands need to be addressed in an economically, socially and environmentally acceptable manner. In this study the author examines, analyses and compares the emissions from coalfired power stations in South Africa, Australia, Canada, Germany, India and the United States of America over a chosen period of time (1995-2001). The results of the study indicate, that, within the comparative group, South Africa is not the greatest producer of emissions from coal-fired power stations. It is the fourth biggest emitter of CO2. It has the highest SO2 emissions, because of the low-grade coal burned in the power stations that have been specifically designed to burn this type of coal. It is the second biggest emitter of NOx, and the third biggest emitter of particulates. Germany is the country that has shown the greatest progress in emissions reductions. This has been the result of restructuring and economic incentives. Overall, South Africa can be ranked third, on par with Australia