Utility Dive•6 days ago
The false promise of cheap and reliable coal
Key Takeaway
The operational failures of a modern coal plant signal a growing imperative for developers and large loads to de-risk their portfolios by prioritizing truly reliable, cleaner, and more flexible generation alternatives.
AI Summary
- •Colorado's newest coal-fired unit, Comanche Unit 3, is experiencing significant operational issues, challenging its promise of cheap and reliable power.
- •The problems with this modern coal unit highlight the increasing financial and reliability risks associated with coal generation for developers and large power consumers.
- •Clean energy advocates are using this example to reinforce arguments for accelerating coal plant retirements and transitioning to cleaner, more dependable energy sources.
Topics
capacity-marketemissionspolicyppasolarstoragewind
Article Content
Colorado’s youngest coal-fired generating unit will not produce power, or savings, anytime soon. The problems with Comanche Unit 3 highlight the hazards of relying on coal, write clean energy advocates Anna Adamsson and Leslie Glustrom.