Case-study of a coal gasification-based energy supply system for China

Abstract

“Syngas city” (SC) is a concept for a coal gasification-based energy supply system that deploys gasification-based polygeneration technologies to meet energy needs of coal-rich areas. This paper summarizes an assessment of the projected environmental impacts of implementing a SC strategy for Zaozhuang, Shandong Province, China. A SC scenario and a “business-as-usual” (BAU) scenario are developed for the Zaozhuang area considering the time-frame 2000 to 2020. A comparison of these scenarios is used to assess whether the SC concept for Zaozhuang could reduce air pollution and promote further economic development while meeting projected demand for energy services. On the basis of socio-economic assumptions, sectoral energy-demand projections are developed. Assumptions are made about expected rates of market penetration of dimethyl ether (DME) and methanol, two clean fuels derived via coal gasification. Emissions of air pollutants in the SC scenario are compared with those in the BAU scenario. Policies to promote the SC concept and technologies in China are proposed.