Scenario Analysis of Carbon Capture and Sequestration Generation Dispatch in the Western U.S. Electricity System

We present an analysis of the feasibility of dispatch of coal-fired generation with carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) as a function of location. Dispatch es for locations are studied with regard to varying carbon dioxide (CO2) prices, demand load levels, and natural gas prices. Using scenarios with a carbon price range of $ 0 to $ 100 per ton - CO2, we show that a hypothetical CCS generator would be dispatched on a marginal cost basis given a high enough carbon price but that the minimum carbon price required for dispatch varies widely by location and system demand.