This report is an integrated summary of various elements of Phase I of the Ohio River Basin Energy Study (ORBES) which includes three parallel but independent preliminary technology assessments and a number of in-depth topical studies. ORBES Phase I was conducted by research faculty from six state universities in the state comprising the Phase I study region: all of Kentucky, and substantial portions of Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. The results reported are preliminary in nature and reflect limitations in data availability and analysis which were found. Four alternative scenarios for energy development in the region through the year 2000 were employed to conduct the analysis. Some of the major preliminary fundings of this first year assessment are: (1) air quality limitations in the region are becoming increasingly important considerations; (2) water availability limitations may become important before the year 2000; and (3) a high rate of growth may be associated with an insufficiency of skilled labor to construct conversion facilities. The implications of these and other selected findings for public policy development are discussed.

Prepared for Office of Energy, Minerals and Industry, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Grant no. R804848-01. Includes bibliographical references (p. 88-91).