NETL Director Brian Anderson will discuss the Lab’s recent innovations in coal-related technologies with experts from across the country during a keynote speech Thursday, Sept. 12, at this year’s annual National Coal Council fall meeting.  

The meeting gives NETL the opportunity to showcase its world-class expertise in coal technology and inform experts on current research activities and goals, as well as learn from industry presentations. Anderson’s presentation will emphasize the Lab’s commitment to advancing next-generation power plants, upgrading the existing fleet and reducing both water use and the cost of carbon capture to make coal-fueled power generation more environmentally and economically sound.

One NETL advancement in the area of carbon capture includes identifying advanced membrane materials that cut carbon capture costs, which boosts the viability of the nation’s coal-fired power fleet to meet America’s growing energy needs. Another NETL-led project is assessing water treatment technologies that produce fresh water from brine used in energy operations, which facilitates water reuse to increase efficiency and reduce consumption.

In addition to Anderson, additional speakers at the meeting will include Steve Winberg, assistant secretary of Fossil Energy; Neil Chatterjee, chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; and Hal Quinn, president and CEO of the National Mining Association.

A federal advisory committee to the U.S. Secretary of Energy, the National Coal Council provides advice and guidance on the general policy matters relating to coal. Topics for this year’s event include global industrial and manufacturing markets for carbon products; developing and commercializing innovative, low-carbon technologies; and a case study on power plant carbon capture retrofits.

NETL is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratory that produces technological solutions for America’s energy challenges. From developing creative innovations and efficient energy systems that make coal more competitive, to advancing technologies that enhance oil and natural gas extraction and transmission processes, NETL research is providing breakthroughs and discoveries that support home-grown energy initiatives, stimulate a growing economy, and improve the health, safety, and security of all Americans. Highly skilled men and women at three NETL research sites – Albany, Oregon; Morgantown, West Virginia; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – conduct a broad range of research activities that support DOE’s mission to advance the national, economic, and energy security of the United States.