University of Missouri using more alternative fuels

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) - A University of Missouri official says the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced by the school's power plant has decreased 43 percent since the 2008 fiscal year.

A decreasing reliance on coal due to stricter environmental regulations has led to the plant's use of alternative fuels, the Columbia Missourian reports.

Assistant Director of Energy Management Ken Davis said the power plant has decreased the amount of coal needed to power, heat and cool the campus. Since 2008, the school went from using 182,000 tons of coal to approximately 48,000 tons.

The university said the power plant expects to further reduce coal consumption to about 30,000 tons.

The school is also making use of a mix of alternative fuels. Wood residues and natural gas make up 63 percent of fuel burned in boilers at the plant on Providence Road.

Incorporation of automated light and cooling systems in buildings on the university's campus has also helped the school decrease its energy consumption 20 percent per square foot since 1990.

In May, the U.S. Energy Administration reported a 15 percent decline in coal-fired generating capacity since 2011. Officials attribute that response to an increase in environmental regulations and lower natural gas prices.