This is a brief description of studies that exemplify the methods and approaches that have been developed and used by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) researchers in conducting integrated assessments. See the complete list of Integrated Assessment Briefs to find out more about ORNL's efforts in integrated assessment. Contact Mike Farrell (farrellmp@ornl.gov) for more information.

Legislative Benefits at New Dams and Diversions

Undeveloped hydroelectric projects at undeveloped new dams and diversions potentially affected by the Electric Consumers Protection Act of 1986 (ECPA).

How should legislative mandates for economic incentives and environmental constraints be integrated to optimize energy production while adequately protecting environmental resources?

The effects of legislative mandates for economic incentives and environmental constraints on potential hydropower energy projects requiring new dams or diversions were evaluated. Available regional information on fish, wildlife, and recreation was used to screen effects under several alternative scenarios.

Economic analysis showed that legislative benefits would indeed provide economic incentives that would increase the amount of development. Environmental analysis suggested that providing full benefits without environmental constraints could permit potentially severe impacts to important and limited resources to occur. Providing benefits while maintaining legislated environmental constraints would allow moderate development and avoid the most serious environmental effects.

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. 1988. Final staff report, evaluating environmental and economic effects. Docket No. EL87-9. Prepared by Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Office of Hydropower Licensing, Washington, D.C.

Where To?

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Integrated Assessment Briefs. 1995. ORNL/M-4227. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN.