The recent ash spills in Kingston, Tenn. brought an under discussed topic to the forefront in some student's minds: the safety of having a coal-fired power plant on campus. Admittedly, there is some inherent risk, however low, due to the nature of the mechanism (exhaust gases, high-pressure steam, etcetera). Not to mention, a large amount of ash is caught and kept temporarily in the filtration system. It is reasonable for students to be concerned; however, that is not say there is any imminent danger.
Mark Petty, assistant vice chancellor of operations, mentions that coal is a relatively cheap and efficient fuel source, especially when compared to alternatives such as natural gas. As far as safety is concerned, there is a system of ash traps and scrubbers, theoretically preventing the more hazardous elements from being released into the air. Furthermore, the coal being burned is better in quality than many other commercial coal power plants, including those run by the Tennessee Valley Authority. As the administration would probably agree, the dangers posed are limited and the rewards (i.e. power) is sufficient.
The ash does consider heavy metals such as lead and antimony, which do pose serious environmental hazards, but there is little risk of exposure provided that the filtration systems are maintained. That really being the issue: proper maintenance. As long as the various systems, turbines, pipes, scrubbers and so forth, are maintained, the risk of anything serious happening is minimal if not negligible.
