Regulatory Analysis and Environmental Impact of Carbon Capture and Sequestration Using the NET Power Technology

Abstract

Regulatory developments in the United States, coupled with low natural gas prices, have altered the economics of electricity generation. Through both court orders and its own regulatory review, the Environmental Protection Agency has made coal combustion especially unattractive for new generation. Low natural gas prices have driven extensive investment in combined cycle and combustion turbine systems. However, natural gas prices have historically been volatile and it is reasonable to assume current low prices will not be the norm. Given that the equipment and techniques needed to sequester carbon dioxide in geologic formations already exist, it is the goal of this paper to show that efficient and low cost carbon capture power plants will be attractive to utilities wanting to maintain a diversity of fuels while complying with new regulations. NET Power's technology will serve as a model for meeting the new environmental regulations.