Study forecasts no big switch to coal

Journal Article · Mon Jul 31 04:00:00 EDT 1978 · Chem. Eng. (N.Y.); (United States)

OSTI ID:6975550

Price, W; Steffes, D W

According to a recent study by D. W. Steffes of Planning and Forecasting Consultants (Houston) on the U.S. western coal market, the U.S. coal industry will produce 800 million tons of coal in 1985, less than two-thirds of the National Energy Plan goal of 1.2 billion tons/yr and a very modest growth from the 1976 production of 665 million tons. Western U.S. coal production will double in 1976-85, but the market will be able to consume only half of the 500 million tons/yr of new western coal capacity predicted for 1985 by the National Coal Association. Steffes also warns against expanding coal-handling facilities in Wyoming and Montana because of the transportation costs. The U.S. will have enough oil and gas at least until 2000, and nuclear and hydroelectric power will meet the demand for electricity; nuclear power should reach 125,000 Mw by 1985, mainly due to higher plant utilization rate (65Vertical Bar3< in 1985 vs. 45Vertical Bar3< in 1975). Present pollution-control regulations make the fuel changeover to coal uneconomical.

• Research Organization: Planning and Forecasting Consultants
• OSTI ID: 6975550
• Journal Information: Chem. Eng. (N.Y.); (United States), Journal Name: Chem. Eng. (N.Y.); (United States) Vol. 85:17; ISSN CHEEA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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