Multiobjective programming with related bargaining games An application to utility coal conversions

A method is developed using n-person game theory together with multiple objective programming and is applied to aid-regional decisions on utility coal conversions. Converting oil fired electric utilities to coal is seen as being of great strategic importance. There are, however, many impediments to utility coal conversions including costs and environmental restrictions. The method developed is used to find workable solutions to this problem which are evaluated based upon measures of economic efficiency, environmental degradation and distributive equity. Using these methods, policy makers, planners and administrators can determine solutions that will aid in the resolution of regional conflicts.