Long-range Energy Research and Development: A Methodology for Program Development and Evaluation

Determining energy research needs for the distant future A process for evaluating technology-development options to meet future energy needs. The process evaluates threats to continued reliance on current energy sources, establishes strategic R&D goals, determines how a technology addresses threats and strategic goals, identifies uncertainties and affordability risks, determines technical problems, and establishes R&D needs and opportunities. A case study of fuel cells and coal gasification for electricity generation illustrates the application and advantages of the approach.