Economic Benefit of Coal Utilization/Conversion at Air Force Bases: Screening Study
Abstract
In support of the Air Force Coal Utilization/Conversion Program, ORNL has reviewed data pertaining to oil- and gas-fired central heating plants at Air Force installations in the contiguous 48 states and Alaska. The objective of this review is to develop a list of the 15 to 20 sites best suited for coal use. The economics of coal utilization favor large-capacity systems and high load factors; facilities that are large fuel users are generally better candidates for coal use than those using less fuel. Heating plants were screened for annual fuel use, and those consuming an average of 30 MBtu/h were given further consideration. This initial list identified heating plants at 24 Air Force installations that met this fuel use criterion. Economic analysis of possible coal utilization projects was used as a tool to identify where coal potentially is the most and least attractive. Based on this economic analysis and consideration of fuel and electric use and prices, eight Air Force sites were eliminated from further consideration. Oil- and gas-fired heating plants at 16 Air Force bases are recommended for further consideration for coal utilization projects. The information in this report will assist closer examination of heat plants to develop a priority order of sites considered for coal utilization projects. Keywords: Life cycle cost analysis. (KR)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA213008
Entities
People
- F. P. Griffin
- J. F. Thomas
- J. M. Young
Organizations
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory