ABSTRACT
Significantly increased domestic energy production will almost certainly include the large-scale development of energy resources located in the western United States. This chapter describes the conduct and approach of the Western Energy Technology Assessment (TA). It also describes the technologies likely to be used to extract, convert, and transport the West's energy. The chapter identifies the range of consequences likely to result from the use of these technologies. It explains policy alternatives and implementation strategies for realizing the benefits of energy development while avoiding or minimizing negative consequences. The Western Energy TA was one of the first products of the Integrated Assessment Program established by Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Energy, Minerals, and Industry. The 1973 Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries oil embargo shocked the United States into recognizing that the days of abundant, cheap energy were over and that being dependent on foreign energy sources can be a significant threat to our national security.
