Europe Turns to Coal

At a time when some are crying that carbon emissions must be rapidly reduced to hold down global warming, Italy’s major electricity producer, Enel, is converting its massive power plant here from oil to coal, what we're told is the dirtiest fuel on earth.

Over the next five years, Italy will increase its reliance on coal to 33 percent from 14 percent. Power generated by Enel from coal will rise to 50 percent.

And Italy is not alone in its return to coal. Driven by rising demand, record high oil and natural gas prices, concerns over energy security and an aversion to nuclear energy, European countries are slated to build about 50 coal-fired plants over the next five years...

[How very interesting. Of course the US, as the "Saudi Arabia of coal", Has naturally all but put the resource off limits for any expanded role as an energy source - to the contrary, congress is busy drafting additional punitive legislation against its use. Are you ready to mine yet?]

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