WCA Statement – IEA Energy Technology Perspectives Report

The World Coal Association Chief Executive, Michelle Manook welcomes the IEA Energy Technology Perspectives 2020 report and issues the following comments:

The World Coal Association and its members support the development and deployment of clean energy technology solutions to reduce emissions. The coal industry has a demonstrated track record of innovating and responding to economic and environmental challenges and it will do so again.

The reality is that coal plays a vital role in the global energy mix. It is a catalyst for economic development, acting as an enabler for several industries, including steel and cement, and it will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

A concerted and coordinated effort from governments, investors, and industries is required to accelerate deployment of these critical technologies and inform sensible transition policy and incentives. The clean energy transition must be inclusive of all fuels and all clean technologies.

With the right policy leadership and agnostic settings, the clean coal industry can continue to contribute meaningfully to achieving both economic and environmental goals. While we have seen significant advances, we need a scaling up in the deployment of all clean technologies, including clean coal technology. This is particularly important in the developing economies that will continue to rely on coal to support their economic growth.

Michelle Manook this week addressed Japans Clean Coal Day International Symposium, reinforcing the message of the importance of scaling up the deployment of clean coal technologies and the role they play in meeting our global environmental aspirations.