The effects of nuclear process heat on the coal sector

In nuclear coal gasification, HTR heat is coupled into the coal gasification process. The smaller amounts of coal used are a great economic advantage over autothermal gasification, which is clearly seen as the plants are used for layer periods. The development steps with regard to energy policy and time are illustrated by the example of the PNP project (Prototype plant for Nuclear Process Heat). Trend predictions are: In 2000, nuclear brown coal gasification plants will have a cost advantage already in their first year of operation. In brown coal and hard coal gasification, cost advantages are predicted for an operating time of 20 years. (GL)