(5b) Research for an Energy Future

Global demand for electrical energy is increasing even as environmental concerns are changing the ways in which we produce it.  Southern Company is a leading US producer of electricity and is dedicated to developing the latest technologies of pollution control, energy production, and energy efficiency, and bringing them to economic feasibility.   This talk will highlight efforts in all these areas, including Southern Company’s major research projects, research centers, and commercial operations.  The talk will primarily focus on Southern Company’s roles in developing pollution control technology, including acid gas scrubbers, selective catalytic reduction of NOx, and mercury control (including the Mercury Research Center and the High-Sulfur Pilot Baghouse Research Center).  CO₂ capture will be discussed including a 25-MW demonstration plant and ongoing work at the National Carbon Capture Center, located at Alabama Power’s Gaston Plant. Changing energy production methods including commercial operations of coal gasification, wind, and solar will also be discussed, as well as the new Solar Power Research Center.  Efforts to develop technologies which conserve water in power production will be highlighted by a discussion of the Water Research Center located at Georgia Power’s Bowen Plant.  Finally, ongoing research to improve energy efficiency for our customers will be highlighted, as well as electric transportation research which would have major environmental benefits.