The report gives results of an analysis of the economics of both wet and dry methods of coal ash disposal, under a specific series of assumptions. It indicates trends in ash disposal costs and includes an evaluation of system components including: in-plant handling systems (vacuum, pressure), transportation systems (pipeline, truck, conveyor, pneumatic systems), disposal area (flat topography, narrow valley, wide valley), and environmental/engineering considerations (liner vs. no liner, compaction vs. no compaction). The effect of power plant size (300, 600, 900, 1300, and 2600 MW) was also evaluated. For each case considered, capital and first year operating and maintenance costs were calculated, then evaluated over the estimated 35-year plant life, using both present worth and total system cost analyses. Study conclusions included: of all factors considered, site topography has the greatest influence on ash disposal costs; dry disposal is the least-cost alternative for flat sites and for many valley sites; and for small plants or short hauling distances, truck transport is the least-cost alternative for dry ash disposal.

"January 1981." Includes bibliographical references. "TVA/OP/EDT-81/30"--Cover. "Interagency agreement no. EPA-IAG-D5-E721BI, program element no. INE624A."