[Alaskan resource development and remote power generation]. Task 7.1 -- Strategic planning. Semi-annual report, January 1--June 30, 1995

Assessment of Alaskan opportunities for demonstrating new technologies for resource development and remote power generation was continued. The design and cost estimates for a demonstration plant to produce coal-water fuel (CWF) from low-sulfur Alaskan subbituminous coal were further reviewed to resolve issues of budget and plant capability. A preliminary evaluation was performed of potential cost and performance benefits to be derived from integrating the CWF plant with the demonstration of the AD Little/Cooper Bessemer CWF-fired diesel engine under the DOE Clean Coal Technology demonstration program. Tests on the Cooper Bessemer engine using Alaskan CWF prepared by the Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC) were recommended to determine engine performance at two levels of coal cleaning: physical cleaning to about 3%--4% ash or additional chemical cleaning to under 2% ash (dry basis). Assistance was provided to graduate students in the Energy Engineering doctoral program at the University of North Dakota in reference to policy papers prepared by them on advanced power options, repowering strategies, and waste management. The information developed in these papers will be used by the EERC in its ongoing assessment of energy and environmental policy issues relating to its research and development program.