RAMSGAS (R and D Analysis Modeling System Natural Gas): A microcomputer-based world gas market model

With hardware and software enhancements in recent years, it has become possible to utilize generic, highly user-friendly software packages to greatly facilitate analysis and planning applications on microcomputers for use directly by planning and decisionmaking personnel. In 1984, staff at Applied Management Sciences began to investigate the use of generic software, such as the electronic spreadsheet, for analyzing complex energy economic issues. The use of LOTUS 1-2-3/sup TM/ spreadsheet software for a major modeling application, utilizing a first principles approach, was demonstrated. This work led to the formulation of a systematic approach for utilizing microcomputer-based modeling techniques for long range market and technology assessment and R and D planning. The Office of Fossil Energy, working with staff from Applied Management Sciences and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, embarked upon the development of a planning framework which would allow R and D program decisions to be made in conjunction with data and analyses on long-term energy markets and energy demand for different fuel types. To assist in meeting these planning needs, the R and D Analysis Modeling System (RAMS), and the initial component of RAMS, a world oil model known as RAMSOIL, was developed. The present paper describes the development of themore » RMS Natural Gas (RAMSGAS) Model, which is the next logical development in the RAMS system. RAMSGAS follows the same basic design premises as RAMSOIL and, as this paper describes, exists as a stand-alone model.« less