This report presents the findings of a scoping study of Indiana's coal transportation infrastructure. Throughout the literature search and investigative phases of this project, it was clear that there exists growing awareness of the importance that transportation plays in the domestic coal industry. There is evidence that suggests transportation costs may be higher than the cost of mining coal. Numerous studies suggest that coal transportation can be developed and utilized for significant competitive economic advantage. The objective of this project was to quantitatively examine the coal transportation infrastructure relative to power plant operations in the state of Indiana and construct a computer simulation model that can be used to quantitatively assess rail scenarios. Computer simulation is a tool that can provide proof of concept. Using simulation, railroads can be proposed, constructed, and operated on a computer. Experiments can be conducted to optimize the operations of the scenario. The intent of this project was not to develop a truly comprehensive analysis of the Indiana position and potential with respect to the national coal transportation, but rather conduct a scoping study that would highlight the issue and suggest a methodology for further analysis.
Prescriptive Analysis of the Indiana Coal Transportation Infrastructure
2007
405 pages
Report
No indication
English
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