As an energy sector specialist with extensive experience in energy economics and environmental policy, I have been involved in numerous studies and analyses comparing the costs and impacts of different energy sources. When it comes to the question of whether it is cheaper to burn coal or natural gas, the answer is multifaceted and depends on various factors including the current market conditions, technological advancements, environmental regulations, and the specific energy needs of a given region.

Market Prices and Costs
Firstly, the cost of burning coal or natural gas is directly influenced by their market prices. Natural gas has been historically cheaper than coal in many regions due to its abundance and the advancements in extraction technologies such as hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking." According to the reference provided, the cost of gas used in utility plants can be as low as $16 per megawatt hour (MWh), which is significantly lower than the $22 for coal. However, these prices can fluctuate based on supply and demand, geopolitical factors, and seasonal changes.

Environmental Regulations
Environmental regulations also play a crucial role in determining the cost-effectiveness of these energy sources. Coal-fired power plants are subject to stricter regulations due to their higher emissions of not only carbon dioxide but also other pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. These regulations can increase the operational costs for coal plants, making natural gas a more economically viable option despite its potentially higher market price at times.

Technological Advancements
Technological advancements have made natural gas extraction and usage more efficient and cost-effective. The development of combined cycle gas turbines (CCGT) has improved the efficiency of natural gas power plants, often exceeding 60%, which is significantly higher than the efficiency of coal-fired power plants. This higher efficiency translates into lower fuel costs and emissions per unit of electricity generated.

Emissions and Climate Change
The environmental impact of burning coal versus natural gas cannot be overlooked. While both emit carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, natural gas emits approximately half the amount of carbon dioxide when combusted compared to an equivalent amount of coal. This lower carbon footprint makes natural gas a more environmentally friendly option, which is increasingly important as the world moves towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change.

Infrastructure and Conversion Costs
Another factor to consider is the existing infrastructure and the costs associated with converting from one energy source to another. For regions with established natural gas networks, the transition to natural gas may be more cost-effective. However, for areas reliant on coal, the costs of building new infrastructure or retrofitting existing facilities to accommodate natural gas could be significant.

Reliability and Energy Security
Natural gas is often considered to have better reliability and energy security compared to coal. Natural gas can be stored more easily and is less susceptible to supply disruptions, which can be a critical factor in ensuring a stable energy supply.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while the cost of burning coal or natural gas can vary based on a multitude of factors, natural gas generally emerges as the more cost-effective and environmentally friendly option. This is supported by its lower emissions, higher efficiency in power generation, and the potential for lower fuel costs due to technological advancements and market dynamics.

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While coal and gas both emit global-warming-inducing carbon dioxide, gas puts out half as much as coal. Last year, gas used in utility plants cost as low as $16 per megawatt hour (a million watts generated continuously over an hour) compared to some $22 for coal. ... --Natural gas is cheaper and more plentiful.--Mar 15, 2017read more >>