Coal fuel cycle externalities estimates (Part of the U.S. Initiative of the U.S. DOE/CEC Study)

Abstract

Electricity is of considerable benefit to the consumer and society. However, the price paid by the consumer does not necessarily reflect the full cost. There are two components to the full cost. One component is the private costs that are paid by the consumer, such as labor, capital, fuel, insurance, etc. The other component includes the cost or benefit accrued to third parties, such as: effects of global warming potential; effects on health from the emissions of SO 2, NO x, and particulates; and other considerations. These costs or benefits are termed externalities, and usually are not included in the price paid by the consumer. Externalities estimates are presented for site-specific Pulverized Fuel electric generation stations located in the southwestern and southeastern part of the U.S.A. The results are referenced to the specific location and may not be applicable to other sites or technologies. The externalities are discussed for a wide range of effects, from global warming potential through trace metal emissions to energy security.