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A two-dimensional finite element model was used to simulate the groundwater recovery process under various surface mining situations. The simulation results were used to predict the rate at which soil settlement takes place. It was found that the groundwater recovery process is very fast immediately after mine closure and cessation of dewatering programmes; a significant part of mine land settlement can be measured at such times. This paper presents a method for deriving the relationship between the re-establishment of the natural groundwater regime to its equilibrium position as existed prior to the commencement of mining operations and mine spoil settlement.
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ABSTRACT: To help meet national energy demands, interest has been focused on the coal, oil shale, and uranium deposits of the Upper Colorado River Basin. Several energy output projections for the basin have been presented based upon water availability. Inherent in all these analyses are estimates as to the rate of water use in each energy development. New energy technologies are characterized by parameters extrapolated from small scale energy facilities. The data provide projected costs, conversion efficiencies, and material inputs and outputs. Alternative techniques for process cooling and solids handling provide variable rates of water use which affect other conversion parameters. Results from a mathematical model...
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In isolated energy systems with no indigenous sources of energy such as the one of the Republic of Cyprus, the renewable energy option is the only alternative to achieve energy independence. Though, the relative technological maturity of renewable energy sources and their satisfactory efficiencies, their implementation has not reached the expected levels in many regions. This situation is mainly due to the fact that the up-to-date efforts for their development have been underestimated and the parameters involved in drafting subsidy schemes are in some cases misinterpreted and not given the appropriate attention. Decision makers are faced with ongoing major energy challenges such as fossil fuel depletion, increasing...
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In this paper we review conceptual arguments and empirical evidence related to two potential sources of market failure involving energy security. In doing so we consider several questions involving the distinction between externality and market inefficiency, and the distinction between market failures that are amenable or not amenable to correction given our current understanding of the workings of an economy. Several conclusions follow from our analysis regarding the potential sources of market failure and possible remedies. The problem of excess wealth transfer from exporter market power may be an issue, but current knowledge of oil market behaviour is too weak to support a strong conclusion. Other supposed costs...
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Coal is the one fossil energy source that can play a substantial role as a transitional energy source as one moves from the petroleum and natural gas based economic system to the future economic system based on nondepletable or renewable energy systems. For coal to remain competitive with other sources of energy in the industrialized countries of the world, continuing technological improvements in all aspects of coal extraction have been necessary. Coal has many important uses, but most significantly in electricity generation, steel and cement manufacture, and industrial process heating. Despite the long-term importance of oil and gas use, coal will remain a major pillar of the world’s energy supply. Developing...
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