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Title: National Coal Utilization Assessment. An integrated assessment of increased coal use in the Midwest: impacts and constraints

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6572686

As a part of the National Coal Utilization Assessment (NCUA), two types of studies are being undertaken--(1) impacts and constraints, and (2) the solutions to these problems. A study of the conflict between air quality and coal use would consider both siting and technology options. The technology options include emerging DOE technologies for coal utilization and conversion (i.e., low-Btu gasification), add-on emission controls, variations in stack height, intermittent or supplementary control systems, and smaller unit facilities. Evaluation of siting alternatives for resolving air-quality conflicts will consider tradeoffs from increased siting in areas with: low-population areas, less sensitive ecosystems, preferable climate (e.g., reduced inversion frequency); and greater distances from PSD areas. Resolution of water shortages for future energy development in specific areas need to be investigated by using one or a combination of the following options: (1) regulation of stream flow by reservoirs: (2) development of groundwater resources; (3) reuse of waste water from municipal, industrial, or agricultural sources; (4) purchase of water rights from competing users; (5) use of less intensive wateruse technologies, e.g., dry cooling; (6) interbasin transfer; (7) alternative siting; and (8) use of advanced, more efficient technology. Local socioeconomic impacts from coal utilization result from changes in employment, population, demographic characteristics of population, and pressures for public and private services. The following options for resolving socioeconomic coal conflicts will be evaluated: rate of development; transport of coal vs. transport of conversion or combustion products; and size of the facility. In addition, financial management options for mitigating short-term growth problems will be evaluated.

Research Organization:
Argonne National Lab., IL (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
W-31-109-ENG-38
OSTI ID:
6572686
Report Number(s):
ANL/AA-11(Vol.1)Draft
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English