EXAMINING ENERGY/ENVIRONMENT POLICY USING DECISION ANALYSIS.
A convenient framework based on multiattribute decision analysis is presented to help a decision-maker evaluate energy/environmental alternatives. The resulting composite model, which indicates the degree to which each of a set of objectives is met by any specific alternatives, links a preference model with a descriptive environmental impact model. The preference model allows one to evaluate alternative strategies by formally incorporating the decision-maker's utilities (i. e. , preferences) with the quantified environmental impacts (supplied by the descriptive impact model), the unquantified effects, and the conventional costs. Utility assessments were performed for two individuals familiar with energy planning in the state of Wisconsin. The benefits of the process and suggestions for implementation are discussed.
