IGCC – commercial breakthrough of a clean generation technology

During the last two decades, gas turbine-based power generation has grown to the point where it may eclipse steam-based generation. While the dominant fuel for this technology is natural gas, coal or other fuels can be processed to make gases which can then be used in combined cycles. While fuel-to-electricity efficiency is lower than when using natural gas, there are other advantages which can make gasification an attractive option. Demonstration projects have shown integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) systems to be commercially acceptable, and they may now move into the mainstream. David White