Actions for Postulated weather modification effects of large energy releases

Email RIS file
Bookmark
Report an Issue

Postulated weather modification effects of large energy releases

Author
Ramsdell, J. V.
Published
United States : [publisher not identified], 1977.
[Oak Ridge, Tennessee] : [U.S. Atomic Energy Commission], 1977.
Physical Description
microfiche : negative ; 11 x 15 cm
Additional Creators
Hubbard, J. E., McGinnis, K. A., Orgill, M. M., Renne, D. S., and Scott, B. C.

Availability

I Want It
I Want It

Finding items...

Summary
Postulated impacts of large energy releases were examined in the light of existing technical information. The magnitudes of direct atmospheric modifications were estimated, and the ecological and economic implications of the modifications were explored. Energy releases from energy centers (10 to 40 power plants at a single site) and individual power plant clusters (1 to 4 power plants) were considered. In the atmosphere the energy will exist initially as increased temperature (sensible heat), moisture (latent heat), and air motion (kinetic energy). Addition of energy could result in increased cloudiness and fog, and changed precipitation patterns. A framework for economic analysis of the impacts of the postulated atmospheric modifications was established on the basis of costs and benefits. Willingness-to-pay was selected as the appropriate measure for valuing each impact. The primary and secondary atmospheric modifications may affect recreation, transportation, and aesthetics as well as agriculture and forestry. Economic values can be placed on some of the effects. However, the willingness of people to pay to gain benefits and avoid damages in many cases can only be determined through extensive surveys. The economic consequences of a given energy release would be highly site specific.
Report Numbers
BNWL-2162
Other Subject(s)
Collection
U.S. Atomic Energy Commission depository collection.
Note
DOE contract number: EY-76-C-06-1830
OSTI Identifier 7256630
Research organization: Battelle Pacific Northwest Labs., Richland, WA (United States).
View MARC record | catkey: 42542490