NETL manages an RD&D portfolio that is designed to remove environmental concerns over the future use of coal by developing revolutionary, near-zero-emissions coal technology. In partnership with the private sector, technology developments are focused on maximizing efficiency and environmental performance while driving down the cost for these new technologies.

RD&D efforts focus on near-term developments to enhance the capabilities of the existing fleet of coal-fired power plants while, in parallel, developing the technology base for future coal energy plants. These future technologies will ultimately be integrated in the FutureGen project, which will serve as a commercial-scale R&D test bed for showcasing advanced coal technologies. The central challenge is to provide coal-based technologies that essentially eliminate pollutant emissions, manage carbon emissions, and remain cost competitive.