Thermal coal, once a dominant source of energy worldwide, is facing increasing challenges as the world shifts towards cleaner and more sustainable sources of power. In recent years, the coal industry has been under pressure from a combination of factors, including stricter environmental regulations, the declining cost of renewable energy technologies, and growing public awareness of the negative impacts of coal on the environment and human health.
According to a recent analysis by CleanTechnica, thermal coal is indeed facing its demise as countries around the world move away from this dirty and polluting fuel. In 2019, global coal consumption fell for the first time in over a decade, with many countries reducing their reliance on coal-fired power plants in favor of cleaner alternatives such as wind, solar, and natural gas.
One of the main drivers behind the decline of thermal coal is the rapid growth of renewable energy sources. Solar and wind power have become increasingly cost-competitive with coal in many parts of the world, making them more attractive options for electricity generation. In addition, advancements in energy storage technology have helped to address the intermittency issues associated with renewables, further reducing the need for coal-fired power plants.
Another factor contributing to the demise of thermal coal is the increasing pressure from governments and environmental groups to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Many countries have committed to phasing out coal-fired power plants as part of their efforts to meet their climate targets under the Paris Agreement. In fact, several countries, including the UK, France, and Canada, have already announced plans to phase out coal entirely within the next few decades.
Furthermore, public opposition to coal has been growing in recent years, with communities around the world pushing back against new coal projects and calling for a transition to cleaner energy sources. The health impacts of coal pollution, including respiratory illnesses and premature deaths, have also become a major concern for many people living near coal-fired power plants.
Despite these challenges, some countries continue to rely heavily on thermal coal for their energy needs. In countries like China and India, coal still accounts for a significant portion of electricity generation, leading to high levels of air pollution and carbon emissions. However, even in these countries, there are signs of change as they invest more in renewable energy and take steps to reduce their dependence on coal.
In conclusion, it is clear that thermal coal is facing its demise as the world moves towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. The declining cost of renewables, increasing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and growing public opposition to coal are all contributing to the decline of this once-dominant fuel source. While the transition away from coal may pose challenges for some regions and industries, it also presents opportunities for innovation, job creation, and a healthier environment for future generations.
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- Source: https://zephyrnet.com/is-it-the-death-knell-for-thermal-coal-cleantechnica/