Large-scale clean coal demonstrations projects have been implemented via four distinct DOE programs. The first large-scale demonstration program began in 1986. Thirty-three projects were completed under this program entitled, Clean Coal Technology Demonstration Program (CCTDP). The second program, Power Plant Improvement Initiative (PPII) resulted in four completed projects. All projects for these two programs are now finished. The Industrial Carbon Capture and Sequestration (ICCS): Area 1 and Clean Coal Power Initiative (CCPI) programs include four completed projects and 10 active projects. DOE/NETL funding commitment for these programs has exceeded $3.4 billion and the industrial partners have committed an additional $11.3 billion; representing over 75 percent of the overall project funding.

These Major Demonstrations are a key part of an integrated research, development and demonstration (RD&D) program that contribute to DOE's strategic theme of "Promoting America's energy security through reliable, clean, and affordable energy."

Through the year 2030, electricity consumption in the United States is expected to grow by about 1 percent per year. The ability of coal-fired generation to help meet this demand could be limited by concerns over greenhouse gas emissions. While the Major Demonstrations performed to date have made significant contributions related to environmental performance and efficiency, the greatest challenges may lie ahead from restrictions on carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. To address these concerns, the focus of DOE/NETL's most recent efforts is on carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.

In the near-term, coal will continue to provide the majority of our Nation's baseload generation capacity. If DOE/NETL CCS-related technology demonstrations prove to be as successful as previous endeavors, economical solutions to the control of carbon emissions will be found and our Nation will continue to benefit from coal's competitive stature and the security of its domestic availability. Collapse Text