Chemical rankings provide some helpful information. But actual risk is based on a combination of factors. Although the chemicals reported by AEP are released in large amounts, they generally rank low in toxicity. If the research determines that these releases pose a public health hazard, we will work with federal and state authorities on an appropriate control program, and comply with any new regulations. In a year, a typical AEP residential customer with electric heat consumes about 18,000 kilowatt-hours, or about 18,000 pounds of coal.
Releases are an unavoidable consequence of burning coal.
Through the years, we have made investments to reduce various chemical emissions and waste streams. The AEP system uses approximately 75 technologies that control or eliminate certain types of water, air and solid waste pollution from its coal-fired power plants, coal mining facilities, nuclear plant and other operations. The industry and government are working together to develop new technologies that will burn coal more efficiently, so that the process produces less pollution or waste. We're finding ways to lower our own use of electricity, and encouraging customers to use electricity wisely, too. But as the demand for electricity continues to rise, and as we generate more electricity to meet demand, our TRI numbers will rise as well.