Correlation Analysis Between Power Output and Exhaust Gas Emissions in a Coal-Fired Power Plant

Abstract

Coal handling operations play a critical role in ensuring stable fuel supply and maintaining environmental performance in coal-fired power plants. This study investigates the relationship between coal flowrate variability in the coal handling system and exhaust gas emission characteristics at PT. PLN Nusantara Power, Paiton Power Plant Units #1–2. Coal flowrate data from Belt Conveyor J2 and exhaust gas emission data (NOx and SO₂) were collected under real operating conditions during March–May 2025. The results show that average coal flowrates were 738.72, 732.72, and 717.16 for the morning, afternoon, and night shifts, respectively, indicating moderate inter-shift variability. Despite these variations, exhaust gas emissions remained stable, with NOx concentrations ranging from 350.69 to 419.95 mg/Nm³ and SO₂ concentrations from 265.81 to 394.18 mg/Nm³. Monthly average emission values were consistently maintained within 387.55–389.14 mg/Nm³ for NOx and 356.91–361.85 mg/Nm³ for SO₂, all of which were below the regulatory limit of 550 mg/Nm³ stipulated by Indonesian environmental standards. These findings demonstrate that stable coal handling operations contribute significantly to maintaining consistent combustion conditions and effective emission control. The study highlights the importance of optimizing upstream operational systems as an integrated strategy to enhance both operational reliability and environmental compliance in coal-fired power plants.