This paper analyses the long-term role of the flexible operation of post-combustion capture for coal power plants in balancing the fluctuating nature of renewable energy technologies, and the need to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the power sector. The paper looks at several factors that can influence the future importance of post-combustion capture coal power plants, including:

the penetration of renewable energy systems
natural gas prices
emission targets
economic constraints

And outlines scenarios in which these plants will be a good mitigation option. The authors put forward the need for the adoption of decarbonising of conventional technologies (such as coal). They discuss a model that has been developed for Germany, accounting for both long-term investments in electricity plant fleet development and short- term fluctuations in demand and renewable energy sources. The study finds that the role played by flexible post-combustion capture will depend on emission constraints and fuel prices, availability of the competing oxy-fuel capture technology alongside renewable energy technologies, and storage (which will reduce the need for this technology option).