Systems Analysis
DOE/NETL possesses strong systems analysis and policy-support capabilities directly related to the nexus between water and energy—from the extraction and mining of fossil fuels and the generation of electricity through the subsequent capture of emissions and disposal and re-use of by-products.  DOE/NETL also participates in the interagency review of environmental regulatory proposals, many of which address water issues associated with energy production.  This has included the review of arsenic standards under the Safe Drinking Water Act and lower reporting thresholds for lead and mercury as part of §313 of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, commonly referred to as the Toxic Release Inventory.  Most recently, DOE/NETL carried out process simulation modeling to approximate energy and environmental impacts of proposed cooling water intake structure regulations.  In addition, a comprehensive review and analysis of the implications of water regulations on the development of natural gas resources is currently underway. 

Policy Support

• Cooling Water Intake Structures
  NETL has looked at several recent Clean Water Act issues. One area of particular focus is the potential impact of cooling water regulations on the existing fleet of power plants. Specifically, NETL has evaluated the impact of retrofitting wet- and/or dry-cooling systems on power plant efficiency using powerful computer process simulation models. Results of the analysis will be used to approximate national energy losses and related environmental impacts.

• Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs)
  The Clean Water Act also requires states to develop total maximum daily load (TMDLs) for impaired bodies of water. TMDLs will limit the maximum amount of pollutants a receiving water body can accept. To assess potential compliance options, NETL is evaluating the feasibility of an allowance trading framework for carbon and other pollutants. NETL is working to establish a series of demonstration projects that show how and to what extent reclamation of abandoned mine land improves overall water quality and may offset industrial carbon emissions. The project aim is to take a holistic look at the reclamation process and will include extensive water monitoring.

NETL has also participated in the Interagency Review of the proposed lowering of arsenic drinking-water levels under the Safe Drinking Water Act, as well as recent proposals to lower lead and mercury reporting thresholds under the Toxic Release Inventory.

International Activities
NETL's capabilities in watershed characterization, data management, technology development, and policy support are closely aligned with a number of emerging global water issues. An interagency workshop was held in August 2000 to facilitate U.S. collaboration on international water projects. The workshop focused on establishing an interagency toolbox of U.S. water-related competencies and technologies. As an integral participant in this toolbox, NETL is positioned to bring its experience and insights to bear on helping to address future global water-energy problem.