From Black to Green: Sustainable Alternatives to Coal Energy

The United Kingdom (UK), once the birthplace of coal energy, has become the first major industry to abandon it. Yes, recently UK stopped 142 years 142-year-old coal-based power plant and became the first country in the world who end coal-fired power generation at Ratcliffe-on-Soar.

Coal is a fossil fuel, usually black or brown, formed by the decomposition of organic matter, primarily plant matter, over millions of years. It is extracted through mining. Burning coal reacts with oxygen in the air, converting all the stored solar energy into thermal energy, which is then released as heat. However, the reaction also produces carbon dioxide and methane, which are harmful greenhouse gases.

The UK has implemented pollution controls to reduce emissions and also the growth of natural gas-powered plants and renewables has contributed to the decline of coal. Now, it has become completely free from coal-based power plants. The UK’s transition away from coal power has helped to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We should also move towards coal-free power generation so that we can also make our country coal-free and keep the environment safe.

How coal is harmful to humans and the environment?

Coal is a significant source of local pollution and a major driver of climate change, responsible for approximately 44% of global CO₂ emissions. Coal-fired power plants emit sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and mercury, polluting the air as well as rivers, streams, and lakes. These emissions not only degrade the environment but are also hazardous to human health.

If you are thinking of eliminating coal then you will have to adopt renewable energy. Fortunately, several eco-friendly options are now becoming real alternatives to coal, bringing hope for a cleaner and more sustainable future. This article looks at the best alternatives to coal energy and how they could reshape the world’s energy use.

Now let’s see what can be the alternative ways to coal energy.

Renewable energy, often known as clean energy, is derived from natural sources that are constantly renewed by nature. Think of sunlight and wind, they’re always present, even though their intensity can vary with the time of day or the season. It is our duty to rapidly promote renewable energy because only this clean energy can liberate us from coal in the future.

Solar energy

For thousands of years, humans have relied on solar energy, using sunlight to grow crops, keep warm, and preserve food by drying it. This ancient relationship with the sun has shaped our survival and sustenance long before modern technology harnessed its power for electricity. Today, we use the sun’s ray in many ways to heat homes and businesses, to warm water, and to power devices.

Solar, or photovoltaic (PV), cells are made of silicon or other materials that convert sunlight directly into electricity. Innovations in solar technology, such as increased efficiency of solar cells and energy storage solutions, are making it an increasingly attractive alternative to coal. Solar energy does not produce air pollutants or greenhouse gases. Unlike coal, the sun is an unlimited resource accessible to most of the world.

Wind energy

We have come a long way from the windmills of old. Today, turbines as tall as skyscrapers with diameters nearly as wide are attracting attention around the world. Wind energy rotates the blades of a turbine, which provides energy to an electric generator and produces electricity. The top wind power states include Texas, Iowa, Oklahoma, Kansas, and California, leading the nation in wind energy production.

Hydroelectric power

Hydropower, a renewable energy source used for centuries, continues to be a dependable and efficient way to generate electricity. It generates electricity by using the flow of water through dams, rivers, or turbines. Hydroelectric plants provide an alternative to coal-fired power plants. Large hydropower dams supply steady electricity in areas with plenty of water, while smaller hydro projects help bring power to remote or developing regions. One main drawback of hydropower is its impact on rivers and wildlife. However, new designs now include features like fish passages to help protect these natural habitats.

Biomass energy

Biomass energy is derived from organic matter, such as plant matter, agricultural waste, and even municipal solid waste. When biomass is burned, it releases chemical energy in the form of heat, which can be used to generate electricity with a steam turbine.

Biomass is often mistakenly described as a clean, renewable fuel and a green alternative to coal and other fossil fuels for power generation. However, recent science shows that many forms of biomass, especially forests, have higher carbon emissions than fossil fuels. Modern biomass methods, like anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, and gasification, are making bioenergy cleaner and more efficient. Still, it’s important to manage biomass carefully to prevent issues like deforestation and other environmental damage.

Geothermal energy

If you have ever relaxed in a hot spring, you might have experienced geothermal energy. The Earth’s core is incredibly hot about as hot as the Sun’s surface because of the slow decay of radioactive particles deep within the planet's rocks.

Geothermal energy uses heat from beneath the Earth's crust to generate electricity and provide heat. There are ways to build geothermal plants where there are no underground reservoirs, but there are concerns that they could increase earthquake risk in areas already considered geological hot spots.

India's Position in the World

Today, there are approximately 9,000 coal-fired power plants worldwide, representing 2185 gigawatts of capacity. The world needs to act swiftly to significantly cut carbon dioxide emissions from coal to prevent serious consequences from climate change.

India is working to become a world leader in renewable energy by reducing its long-standing dependence on coal. India has set ambitious targets to significantly increase its renewable energy capacity, aiming for 500 GW by 2030. The government is dedicated to lowering carbon emissions and improving energy security by encouraging the use of sustainable alternatives. Their transition is not only in line with India's climate commitments but also enhances its global position as an active partner in the fight against climate change.