Advantages of using Coal
As an energy source coal is regarded as an old and outdated method. What most people don’t know is that coal is still the most abundant energy source available today. It is a widely used energy source throughout the world and since the year 2000 its usage steadily increased over any other energy source. Almost half of the electricity used in America is generated by coal, a regular trend by people using coal is to buy it in bulk and then store it at their homes using storage units known as coal bunkers.
One of the main reasons for using coal as an energy source is that it is abundant and therefore it is inexpensive when compared with other energy sources. Recent estimates revealed that there 930 billion tons of recoverable coal reserves throughout the world and presuming there are no more coal discoveries, this should last for at least 137 years. China is the worlds leading producer of coal followed by the United States and India. These three countries combined account for 68% of the world’s current coal production. Many countries have found that they do not have sufficient amounts of energy sources within their own borders so energy sources have to be imported. Coal is the most cost effective energy source that can be imported as it is easily transported, abundant and inexpensive. Large coal bunkers can be filled and loaded on to trains and boats ready to be easily transported all over the world.
Another advantage of using coal as an energy source is that it is very easily used. It does not require the expensive cost and labour required with the refining process that oil and natural gas must go through before it can be used. Coal is a solid source by nature which makes it easier and safer to transport. Coal can be easily stored at the home and available in a time of need. Coal can be purchased cheaply in large quantities and stored neatly and safely using coal bunkers for quick and easy use. Coal also has many uses, it can be used on an open fire to heat a home or it can provide energy for thousands when used with a turbine. Coal based power is not dependant on weather and therefore has an advantage over renewable energy sources such as wind or solar power and the electricity provided by coal is very reliable.
Although there are many advantages of using coal it is also said that there are many disadvantages as well. One of the main causes for concern when using coal is the impact that it has on the environment. It is said that coal mining cause’s water pollution, soil erosion, dust and can lead do global warming.
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