HELE Technologies in Japan and South Korea, CCC/293

ABSTRACT

This study is one of a continuing series undertaken by the IEA Clean Coal Centre into the impact of high efficiency, low emission (HELE) power generation technologies. It investigates the role of HELE technologies in the economies of Japan and South Korea in the light of national policy and legislative drivers, and HELE outreach to third countries through assisted finance initiatives.

Coal will continue to play an important role in meeting Japan’s energy needs, through a coal-positive policy and a developed and efficient coal fleet. Japanese advanced ultrasupercritical (AUSC) technology affords an important opportunity to demonstrate further the role of HELE plant in providing affordable, reliable power and if that technology is incorporated into the coal fleet at the earliest opportunity it will contribute to lowering emissions of CO2. Japanese development of integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) promises more advanced HELE technology in the near term and HELE outreach is bringing the advanced coal-based power solutions to the emerging economies.

Coal will also continue to play a significant role in meeting South Korea’s energy needs, despite current coal-negative policy, because of Korea’s developed and efficient coal fleet. South Korea’s AUSC and IGCC technologies could soon afford an important opportunity to demonstrate further the role of HELE coal plant in providing affordable, reliable power. South Korea is successful in exporting HELE technology, especially in meeting the growing power needs of Viet Nam.