Economics of retrofit air pollution control technologies (Nalbandian, 05-2006)

There are many proven technologies available today for reducing air pollutant emissions from pulverised coal fired power plant. For retrofit applications, some technologies may be better suited than others for reasons of layout and cost, process integration with existing plant, age and design of that plant and the emission levels to be achieved. However, the choice of a technology is usually dependent on how strict the legislation for an air pollutant is, the reliability and the performance of the chosen technology. Cost, albeit a major factor in retrofit control technology installation, does not appear to be the deciding factor in the choice of a specific technology. This is obvious when considering that the most widely retrofitted FGD technology is the wet scrubber which incurs higher capital costs. This report discussed international and national regulatory demands driving the installation of air pollution control systems. If reviews the available technologies from the aspect of retrofitting to existing pulverised coal fired power plant only. It addresses the drivers and economics of technology choice in today´s power plant. Historical choice of technologies is presented and trends are evaluated with their cost estimates. Interaction between the different air pollution control technologies is also discussed. The review shows the issues and considerations faced and dealt with by pulverised coal fired power plant owners and operators today when making investment decisions to meet legislative demand.