A comparative analysis of three of ERDA's major R & D programs

The benefits attributable to alternative energy R & D programs should be evaluated in terms of how well the technologies contribute as integral elements of the total United States energy system (rather than as isolated entities, as has typically been done in the past). Thus, the present model simulates the dynamics of the evolution of the total energy system by requiring both existing and new technologies to compete for introduction (i.e. commercialization) on a cost-competitive basis that considers the time phasing of 1.(1) retirement of energy conversion facilities,2.(2) growth in end-use demands, and3.(3) escalation of the costs of extracting depleting domestic energy resources. This approach contrasts with a static model used by the Energy Research and Development Administration (ERDA), wherein assumptions must be made for each future year of interest for 1.(1) maximum capacity constraints for alternative types of conversion facilities and2.(2) the cost of energy resources.