Coal-based power has become a key element of India's energy sector. As the country's energy and power needs continue to grow, the role of coal will remain undiminished for at least the next few decades. Yet, there are a number of challenges facing the coal-power sector, and there are several constraints that will affect its trajectory. There is now a broad and evolving array of technology options for the coal power generation, unlike in the past when subcritical pulverized coal combustion was the dominant technology of choice.

Energy: Using photosynthesis to capture exhaust gases from power plants could reduce the emissions produced by coal-fired stations T7 OR its supporters, the idea of growing 17 single-celled algae on exhaust gas piped from power stations is the ultimate in recycling. For its detractors, it is a mere pipe dream.

U.S.

A national technology mission initiative on `Clean Carbon technologies', which will focus on clean power generation is in the offing, according to the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Union Government, Dr R. Chidambaram.

The European Union's executive will next month publish its strategy for promoting hi-tech solutions to climate change, aiming to give European businesses a head start as the world switches to low-carbon energy.

A draft document obtained by Reuters gives insight into the European Commission's priorities.

Two of the nation

Australia's government will spend A$4.5 billion (US$3.4 billion) in partnership with private investors to build up to eight commercial power stations testing clean coal and solar technologies, Treasurer Wayne Swan said on Tuesday.

WITH HEIGHTENED concern for global warming at last taking centrestage

Cleantech isn

VICTORIA'S brown coal industry will benefit from a multimillion-dollar investment flowing into clean-coal technology company Exergen. Indian multinational company Tata Power and Australian engineering services company Sedgman yesterday announced their investment at Beaconsfield, Tasmania, the site of Exergen's pilot plant. They join foundation investor Thiess. The size and conditions of the investment are being kept confidential, but the money will help fund a $20 million engineering study to be conducted over the next eight to nine months.

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