2j. Lignite
What is Lignite Energy?
Lignite energy comes from burning lignite coal. Coal is burned, turning chemical energy into thermal energy. The thermal energy is used to heat water into steam, which then turns a turbine attached to a generator.
Advantages of Lignite
- -North Dakota has large amounts of lignite to mine.
- -The state also has several coal-fired power plants built adjacent to coal mines.
- -This makes lignite power economical as transportation costs between the mine and powerplant are minimal.
- -Lignite can handle a high base of electrical demand because of its availability and reliability.
Disadvantages of Lignite
- -Federal regulations make permitting for lignite mining and electrical generation difficult.
- -It takes years to complete the permitting process.
- -Lignite-fired power plants are also relatively slower to start up than other types of electrical generation.