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FY 1976 - 12/17/74 - FEA, ERDA, Small Agencies
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FY 1976 - 12/17/74 - FEA, ERDA, Small Agencies
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White House Special Files Unit Files
Budget Review Decision Papers
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Israel
Vietnam (Republic)
Federal Energy Administration. (6/27/1974 - 10/1/1977)
Energy Research and Development Administration. 1/19/1975-10/1/1977
Export-Import Bank of the United States. 3/13/1968-
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The original documents are located in Box 8, folder "FY 1976 - 12/17/74, FEA, ERDA,
Small Agencies" of the White House Special Files Unit Files at the Gerald R. Ford
Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box 8 of the White House Special Files Unit Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
MEETING WITH
ROY ASH
FEA, ERDA, AREAS OF NATURAL
CONFIDENTIAL
RESOURCES, ENERGY AND SCIENCE
AND REMAINING FOREIGN ASSISTANCE
COVER SHEET
ISSUES
Tuesday, December 17, 1974
2:00 P.M.
FORD i LIBRARY GERALD
1976 Budget
Session With The
President
12/17/74
1976 Budget
Session With The
President
12/17/74
Attach this form to CONFIDENTIAL
material in use. DETACH the form
CONFIDENTIAL
when material is filed, stored or
dispatched.
COVER SHEET
OMB FORM 68
MAY 67
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
December 16, 1974
MEETING WITH ROY L. ASH
Tuesday, December 17, 1974
2:00 p.m. (60 minutes)
Oval Office
From: ROM L. Ash
I. PURPOSE
To make final FY 76 budget decisions for the Federal
Energy Administration, the Energy Research and Develop-
ment Administration, several smaller agencies in the
areas of natural resources, energy and science, and a
few remaining foreign assistance issues.
II. BACKGROUND, PARTICIPANTS, AND PRESS PLAN
A. Background: The FY 76 budget submissions for FEA,
ERDA, several smaller agencies in the areas of
natural resources, energy and science and a few
foreign assistance areas have been reviewed and
the results have been reported to the affected
agencies. This meeting is to consider the issues
raised during the above reviews that require Presi-
dential consideration and determinations.
B. Participants: Roy L. Ash, Paul O'Neill, Frank Zarb,
Dale McOmber, & Donald Ogilvie
C. Press Plan: David Kennerly photo
III. TALKING POINTS
A. Frank Zarb, what is the first issue we should consider
in the energy area?
B. Frank Zarb, which of the smaller agencies in the areas
of natural resources, energy and science should we
consider first?
C. Don Ogilvie, will you describe the foreign assistance
issues we will be considering today?
Foreign Aid
15
CONFIDENTIAL
Foreign Assistance
1976 Budget
Issue #6: Middle East Economic and Military Assistance
Statement of Issue
What amounts of military and economic assistance should be included in
the Budget for Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Syria?
1974
1975
1976
Budget
Est.
Alt.#1
Alt. #2
Alt.#3
LIBRARY
FORD
Agency Req.
OMB Rec.
($ millions)
&
07
Supporting assistance
--
250
250
300
250
50
Syria
a
a
Supporting assistance
--
( 75)
( 75)
90
75
25
Jordan
Grant MAP
40
100
30
100
30
30
FMS credit
--
30
30
30
10
10
Supporting assistance
46
78
78
78
35
15
a
a
Special Requirements Fund
--
100
100
25
25
25
Subtotal
86
558
488
623
425
155
Israel
FMS credit
300
300
300
300
300
300
Supporting assistance
50
50
250
100
50
50
Emergency Sec. Ass't.
2200
--
--
--
--
--
Grand Total
2636
908
1038
1023
775
505
a / $75 million of Special Requirements Fund is planned for Syria.
Background
Significant changes in the diplomatic situation in the Middle East have
resulted in basic
certainties regarding the immediate objectives of our
assistance in the
7.
- Negotiations ave been stalled for several months.
DECLASSIFIED
E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.4 (b)
White House Guide Lines, Feb. 24, 1983
CONFIDENTIAL
By DAN NARS, Date 6/27/85
CONFIDENTIAL
16
- The Arab summit conference in Rabat designated the Palestine
Liberation Organization, rather than Jordan, to negotiate with
Israel for return of the West Bank.
- The Arab oil producers at the Rabat conference pledged $2.3 billion
annually in aid to Egypt, Jordan, and Syria in addition to the
$5.3 billion pledged in the past year.
FORD
LIBRARY
Other
Rabat
Cash
Grants
Loans
Pledge
Total
($ millions)
07V859
Egypt
1,320
1,650
868
1,000
4,838
Syria
640
340
224
1,000
2,204
Jordan
181
4
45
300
530
Total
2,141
1,994
1,137
2,300
7,572
These events affect the role and impact of U.S. assistance. Because the
United States does not wish to signal any change from the current
negotiating strategy at this time, however, the proposed assistance
programs are designed to be neutral as regards signals of change.
Israel. The major unknown affecting future military assistance require-
ments is the U.S. response to Israel's request for $1.5 billion annually
in grant aid for a ten year military enhancement program. Since the
October 1973 war the U.S. has agreed to provide about $2.5 billion in
arms and $2.5 billion in financing, $1.5 billion on a grant basis. An
additional $300 million in military sales credits will be provided in
1975. Although there has been no economic requirement for the general
balance of payments support provided to date, a continued high level of
mobilization or withdrawal from the Sinai oil fields could change this.
Jordan. The United States has provided aid to Jordan to keep Israel's
longest border secure and to assure cooperation in negotiations. Military
assistance helps to maintain army loyalty as the backbone of a moderate
regime. Economic assistance has been justified as budget support despite
the country's large foreign exchange holdings. Jordan's diminished role
in the negotiations and the sharply increased Arab aid have diminished the
need for high aid levels.
Egypt and Syria. Economic aid to both countries is designed to indicate
U.S. interest in broadening and balancing its relationships in the area,
and to provide incentives to enter into those relationships. The massive
assistance flows from the Arab oil producers have diminished the incentive
effect, however, and reduced the diplomatic leverage of U.S. aid. Disbursed
or committed assistance will meet both projected foreign exchange deficits
and likely development and reconstruction activities for several years,
CONFIRENTIAL
17
CONFIDENTIAL
given the sluggish administrative pace of those governments. U.S.
assistance requested for 1975 will not begin to flow until 1976,
due to delayed enactment of foreign assistance appropriations.
Alternatives
#1. Increase economic aid over 1975 proposed levels and maintain
FORD
military aid at those levels, with a total of $1,023 million
(State req.).
#2. Maintain 1975 proposed levels, with the exception of reduced
aid to Jordan, with a total of $775 million (OMB rec.).
#3. Reduce aid to levels more justifiable in programmatic terms,
with a total of $505 million.
Analysis
Alternative #1:
- is designed to provide greater incentives for cooperation on
a Middle East settlement.
- includes higher levels of economic aid to Egypt, Syria and
Jordan, which were proposed before the extent of aid from
Arab oil countries was appreciated.
- proposes levels of aid to Jordan difficult to justify in
terms of that country's needs and its decreased role in
negotiations.
- minimizes flexibility by raising assistance levels before
we receive anything in return.
Alternative #2:
- is neutral as regards signals but communicates confidence
in the established negotiating strategy.
- takes account of the diminished importance of Jordan in the
negotiations and of the increased economic aid from Arab oil
producers.
- does not take into account increased levels of oil producer
assistance to Egypt and Syria.
Alternative #3:
- reflects changed diplomatic and economic conditions.
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
18
- takes into account the massive assistance flows from
oil producer countries to Egypt, Syria, and Jordan.
- shifts our assistance strategy away from resource transfers
toward a broader technical assistance orientation in which
OUCS
the United States has an advantage over Arab oil producers.
- shifts balance of payments support requirements onto the
STYNT
Arab oil countries.
Agency Request: Alternative #1 - increase assistance over 1975 Budget
level. The NSC strongly supports the State request. The levels
recommended reflect the judgment of Secretary Kissinger as to the mix
of U.S. participation in security and development efforts in the area
most likely to encourage the parties to continue their efforts to
attain a lasting peace.
OMB Recommendation: Alternative #2 - maintain assistance at 1975 Budget
level, with the exception of Jordan. State's decisions on economic
assistance were made before the impact of the Rabat conference,
discussed above, was appreciated. (DOD concurs in the lower military
assistance level for Jordan.)
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
FOREIGN ASSISTANCE
1976 Budget
Issue#12: Military Assistance to
South Vietnam
Statement of Issue
How much grant military assistance for South Vietnam in 1975, 1976
and Transition Quarter should be requested in the 1976 budget?
LIBRARY
1975
1976
T/Q
Total
FORD
Approp.
Suppl.
Est.
Est.
Request
($ millions)
Alt. #1 (NSC)
700
300
1293
355:
2648
Alt. #2 (DOD)
700
-
1293
355
2348
Alt. #3 (OMB)
700
300
1000
250
2250
Background
Prior to December 3, there was agreement on the levels for military
assistance to South Vietnam - $700 million in 1975, $1000 million for
1976 and $238 million for the transition quarter. It was understood
that DOD probably would wish to submit a supplemental request later
for $300 million for 1975 if a sizable attack occurs in the coming
dry season.
Secretary Schlesinger, with Dr. Kissinger's agreement, has now decided
to increase his 1976 recommendation to $1,293 million, based on
recent field visits by DOD staff (Ambassador Martin's estimate was
$1,950 million.). DOD states that the additional $300 million for
1975 and $293 million for 1976 will be required whether or not there
is a major enemy attack this spring. DOD is, therefore, prepared
to assert now the need for $1,293 million for 1976, as well as an
increase of $117 million for the transition quarter (from $238
million to $355 million) However, Secretary Schlesinger does not
wish to include a request for the $300 million supplemental for 1975 in
the 1976 Budget on the grounds that the chances for securing additional
1975 funds from the Congress are poor at this time but should be
more favorable later after the anticipated North Vietnamese offensive.
Secretary Schlesinger also recommends that the President indicate in
his Budget Message that additional funds will probably be needed in
1975 although they are not being requested now.
E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.4 (b)
White House Guide Lines, Feb. 24, 1983
CONFIDENTIAL
By
DAW NARS, Date 6/27/85
CONFIDENTIAL
Alternatives
#1. Request $1293 million for 1976 and $355 million for the transition
period. Propose a $300 million supplemental for 1975 in the 1976
Budget.
#2. Request $1293 million for 1976 and $355 million for the transition
period. Make no provision for a 1975 supplemental except by
reference in the Budget Message (DOD rec.).
LIBRARY
#3. Request $1000 million for 1976 and $250 million for the transition
FORD
period. Propose a $300 million supplemental in the 1976 Budget
(OMB rec.).
GERALD
Analysis
The only apparent advantages of a 1976 request of $1293 million would
be to signal (1) to the Congress that $700 million annually clearly
is not enough to fund the war and (2) to Hanoi our intention to support
South Vietnam. This approach, however, risks antagonizing the Congress
at a time when the case for an 85% increase might be more difficult to
make than later when an offensive is under way. As for the 1975
supplemental, failure to request the $300 million 1975 supplemental
in the Budget could make a 1976 request of $1293 million appear
unreasonably high compared to the $700 million appropriated for 1975.
Alternative #3 would assert the validity of a $1000 million level for
both 1975 and 1976, while leaving open the option to amend the 1976
request upward later if justified by events in South Vietnam.
DOD Recommendation: Alternative #2 -- Request $1293 million for 1976
and $355 million for the transition period. Defer the 1975 supplemental.
NSC Recommendation: Alternative #1 -- Request $1293 million for 1976
and $355 million for the transition period. Include a $300 million
supplemental request for 1975 in the 1976 Budget.
OMB Recommendation: Alternative #3 -- Request $1000 million for 1976
and $250 million for the transition period. Include a $300 million
supplemental request for 1975 in the 1976 Budget.
CONFIDENTIAL
EX-IM Bank
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
FORDO & LIBRARY CERALD
MEMORANDUM FOR: THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Roy In Ash
SUBJECT:
1976 Budget decisions: Export-Import Bank
of the United States
The agency request and my recommendations with respect to
1976 budget amounts for the Export-Import Bank are presented
in the tabulation attached (Tab A). We have not yet had an
opportunity to discuss my recommendations with the Bank.
One key issue has been identified for your consideration
(detail at Tab B).
Program Level
The Export-Import Bank recommends a $17.3 billion pro-
gram level, an 84 percent increase over the estimated 1975
level, in order to meet all potential new business.
OMB recommends a $10.4 billion program level, a 10
percent increase over 1975, in order to encourage greater
selectivity in lending and to moderate the federal govern-
ment's demand on the domestic credit market.
Decision: Approve agency recommendation
Approve OMB recommendation
Attachments
TAB A
FORD
EXPORT-IMPORT BANK OF THE UNITED STATES
1976 Budget
Summary Data
(In millions)
Limitation on
Program
Employment, end-of-period
Program
Activity
Full-time
Activity a/
at 100%
Permanent
Total
1974 actual
5,265
8,991
399
405
1975 January budget
6,403
13,570
420
425
enacted
b/
supplemental recommended
0
0
0
0
OMB recommendation
6,403
13,570
420
425
1976 planning ceiling
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
agency request
9,457
17,275
500
521
OMB recommendation
5,698
10,400
420
425
ransition period
agency request
2,364
4,319
500
521
OMB recommendation
1,425
2,600
420
425
1977 OMB estimate
5,698
10,400
420
425
/ Eximbank's statutory limitation includes guarantees and insurance
counted at 25 percent of face value.
b/
Congressional action is uncompleted.
TAB B
EXPORT-IMPORT BANK OF THE UNITED STATES
1976 Budget
Statement of Issue
What level of Eximbank lending should be permitted in 1976?
Eximbank Program Levels
($ billion)
1974
1975
1976
Alt. #1
Alt. #2
Budget
Est.
Req.
OMB Rec.
Direct Loans
3.9
3.6
3.5
6.1
3.9
Discount Loans
0.9
2.0
1.3
2.3
1.4
Guarantees and Insurance
4.2
8.0
4.6
8.9
5.1
Total Program
9.0
13.6
9.4
17.3
10.4
Outlays*
1.2
1.3
1.3
1.8
1.1
Background
The Eximbank provides direct credits to support U.S. exports,
and refinances (discounts) and insures export loans by U.S.
banks and exporters. Direct loans are currently charged a 7 or
8 percent interest rate. The Bank normally provides credits for
30 to 45 percent of the value of an export transaction, the
balance being covered by a cash downpayment and commercial
financing.
The Bank has grown rapidly over the past five years. This has
been the result of its aggressiveness in seeking new business
and of the fact that its interest rate remained low as
commercial export credit rates were rising. With generous pro-
gram limits, there was no incentive for the Bank to be selective
in its use of funds. As a result, Exim has tended to become
the lender of first resort at the expense of private credit.
In 1974, the Bank for the first time in several years found
itself constrained by its budget ceiling. Forced to begin
restraining demand for its financing, Exim raised its interest
rates (from 6 percent to 7 and 8 percent) and began supporting
a smaller portion of export transactions. Nevertheless, the
Eximbank has continued to seek increases in its ceilings to
*
Eximbank outlays are excluded by statute from the Budget
totals.
allow it to extend credits to all comers regardless of
GERALD FORM
demonstrable need for subsidized financing.
The Eximbank's 1976 budget request of $17.3 billion represents
an increase of 92 percent over the 1974 level, 27 percent
over the 1975 Budget, and 84 percent over the estimated 1975
level. This growth is considerably higher than that of
exports as a whole. The budget request follows a pattern
established over the past few years: sizable increases in
the proportion of exports financed by the government and budget
limits that exceed the business which can actually be done by
the Bank without significantly relaxing loan criteria.
Alternatives
#1.
$17.3 billion. Provide authority sufficient to meet the
demand for loans under current Eximbank lending policies
(Agency req. )
#2. $10.4 billion. Limit program growth to established growth
in exports thereby keeping pressure on Exim to limit its
program to priority uses (OMB rec.).
Analysis
The Eximbank request would result in Exim financing 22 percent
of the value of all nonagricultural exports in 1976, compared
with 12 percent in 1970, 14 percent in 1974 and an estimated
13 percent in 1975. The Bank argues that it must continue to
meet demand, especially since "our nation is facing the specter
of large outflows of payments for energy and raw materials"
over the next few years.
The request must be considered in terms of both its domestic
impact and its impact on the international economic position of
the United States. Domestically, Exim's subsidy diverts credit
from other priority uses such as homebuilding, business invest-
ment, and State and local governments. Also, because the goods
are exported rather than consumed at home, Exim's subsidy has
a less favorable effect on inflation and business activity than
an equivalent subsidy applied to production for domestic use.
In terms of our international position, the United States must
export all it can, but artifically swelling the level of
exports through a subsidy does nothing to lower the real cost
to the economy of energy and raw materials imports. Further,
credit such as Exim provides docs not get repaid for 8 to 15
years, causing a capital outflow until repayment occurs and a
weakening of the near-term balance of payments. Finally,
interest subsidies tend to give some foreign buyers an
advantage over their U.S. competitors. Pan Am and TWA have
recently complained of this in airline competition.
LIGRABLE GERALD FORD
In our view, Exim is justified in providing below-market
interest rates only if necessary to meet foreign government
credit competition. Efforts are now underway to reduce this
competition among the U.S., Europe and Japan. In early
October, an agreement in principle was reached by these
countries not to provide official credits to support exports
to each other or to the oil-rich countries, although in practice
Exim disagreement with details of the agreement has made it
ineffective. Work on a more specific "gentlemen's agreement"
limiting official rates and maturities is now at an advanced
state. Continuing budgetary constraints would encourage Exim to
play a more positive role in these negotiations.
The OMB recommendation would provide such a constraint by
increasing Exim's program ceiling by the expected rate of growth
in U.S. exports. This will require added discipline on the
part of the Bank to restrain demand for its loans, perhaps by
increasing its interest rate or by developing a screening pro-
cedure to better identify transactions where commercial financ-
ing is unavailable.
Agency Request: Alternative #1, a $17.3 billion program.
OMB Recommendation: Alternative #2, a $10.4 billion program.
Energy
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
GERALD R. FORD LIBRARY
MEMORANDUM FOR: THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Roy
Ash
SUBJECT:
1976 Budget Decisions - Energy Research and
Development Administration
The agency request and my recommendations with respect to the
overall 1976 budget amounts for the new Energy Research and
Development Administration (ERDA) are attached (Tab A). The
recommended budget for specific energy research and develop-
ment programs - together with a summary of all ERDA programs -
is attached (Tab B). Also attached is an overview of our
energy research and development strategy (Tab C) One issue
has been identified for your consideration (Tab D).
Since ERDA has not yet been officially established, we have
conducted the budget discussions on ERDA programs chiefly
with the Chairman of the AEC, but also with representatives
of Interior, NSF, and --agencies that will be contributing
programs to ERDA. Because he has only just been confirmed
as ERDA Administrator, Dr. Seamans is unlikely to have an
opportunity for in-depth review of his budget prior to
completion of the overall 1976 budget. As a result,
Dr. Seamans should be permitted to consider reprogramming
or budget amendment actions next spring after he has
completed his overall assessment of the ERDA budget. In
general, however, I believe the 1976 budget for ERDA is
adequate to reflect Administration commitment to a strong,
balanced energy R&D effort and should provide a reasonable
basis for Dr. Seamans to discharge his new responsibilities.
My major recommendations in the FY 1976 ERDA budget are as
follows:
Energy Research and Development
The recommended budget for energy R&D, summarized at Tab B,
includes increases in the following major areas:
Nuclear
- Breeder program: Continue development of the Liquid
Metal Fast Breeder Reactor (LMFBR) including the con-
struction of the Clinch River Breeder Reactor (CRBR)
FORD
2
demonstration plant. However, because of the $1 billion
growth in the cost estimate for the CRBR project, the
new ERDA Administrator will need to conduct a complete
review of the LMFBR program before any final decision
to proceed with the CRBR demonstration plant.
- Fusion: Conduct research and development on Controlled
Thermonuclear Fusion at the level requested by AEC
including the initiation of a $215 million test reactor
project. This funding level should result in signifi-
cant progress in a technology which potentially may be
the ultimate major solution to U.S. power needs (beyond
the year 2000).
- Laser uranium enrichment: Accelerate the development
of technology for using lasers to enrich uranium for
civilian power reactor fuel. Although technically
difficult, the laser separation process could lead to
major reductions in the cost of enriching uranium and
to recovering more fuel from mined uranium.
Non-Nuclear
- Fossil fuel: Continue the growth in programs aimed at
producing clean liquid and gaseous fuels from coal,
burning coal directly without environmental damage, and
improving the technology for coal extraction, both
underground and above ground.
- Solar: Expand further research and development efforts
in solar energy. Principal thrusts are in heating and
cooling of buildings, solar thermal production of energy,
wind power and photo voltaics (converting solar radia-
tion directly to electricity in solar cells).
- Oil, gas, and shale: Maintain programs to supplement
industry's efforts to develop improved methods of oil
and gas extraction and oil shale conversion.
- Stack gas cleaning: Continue the important development
efforts in environmental control with emphasis on
improved technologies for stack gas desulphurization
to permit use of high sulphur coal.
- Conservation R&D: Continue efforts in conservation R&D
with major programs in electric transmission distribution
and storage, automotive propulsion and improved buildings
and materials technology.
3
Non-Energy R&D ERDA Programs
The recommended budget for non-energy R&D programs of ERDA,
also summarized in attachment B, covers the following
principal program areas:
Defense Programs
FORD LIBRARY
- Continue research and development and underground
testing of nuclear weapons at about the FY 1975 level
of effort (FY 1976 outlays $535 million).
- Produce nuclear weapons for DOD at slightly below the
FY 1975 funding level (FY 1976 outlays $489 million)
Require decrease in overhead costs consistent with
reduced production output.
- Continue research and development on Adm. Rickover's
program to develop improved propulsion reactors for
Naval ships including Trident and high speed attack
submarines (FY 1976 outlays $239 million).
- Continue operation of four production reactors which
make plutonium and tritium for nuclear weapons. Have
AEC renegotiate its current contract with the Washing-
ton Public Power Supply System to seek a $30 million
increase in revenues from the sale of steam from the
N Reactor (Richland, Washington). In return for a more
equitable cost sharing, offer the Northwest utilities
a several year extension of operations for N Reactor
beyond the presently scheduled shutdown in October 1977.
Uranium Enrichment and Other Programs
- Continue to expand the capacity of the current AEC
plants which provide enriched uranium fuel for civilian
power reactors (FY 1976 outlays $745 million).
Increase the price charged by the Government for
uranium enrichment to a level comparable to that which
a commercial enterprise would require (increase in
FY 1976 revenues will be $86 million for a new uraniv
enrichment revenue total of $661 million) to encourage
private entry into the building of future uranium
enrichment capacity.
- Continue the operation of AEC's four large high energy
physics accelerators at a slightly higher rate of
utilization in order to provide a more productive
scientific output (FY 1976 outlays $182 million).
FORD
4
Agency Appeals
AEC
AEC originally appealed for the restoration of $77 million
of FY 1976 program outlays for its portion of the ERDA
budget. The appeals covered a large number of relatively
small items. However, in subsequent discussions with
Chairman Ray, she listed critical appeals totalling $32
million primarily for civilian power reactor development,
design of a radioactive waste storage facility, weapons
research and development, physical research, and environ-
mental effects research.
We have reviewed Chairman Ray's compromise solution and
are in general agreement that these are the priority areas
for any restoration of funds. However, in order to avoid
a possible impact on the production of nuclear weapons,
we would recommend that within the $32 million an addi-
tional $5 million be provided for the nuclear weapons
program. This can be accommodated by reducing the amounts
added to physical research and environmental effects
research without a major program impact.
Outside of these appeals, the only major program issue
remaining for the AEC programs is the proposed construc-
tion of a new experimental device for high energy physics
research designated the Positron-Electron Project (PEP).
We would continue to recommend against starting this major
$72 million facility in the 1976 Budget and the Science
Adviser concurs in its deferability This issue is
covered under Tab D.
AEC also originally appealed OMB's decision to add $116
million of revenues by (a) increasing the charge for
uranium enrichment ($86 million) and (b) increasing the
price charged for steam from the N Reactor ($30 million)
at Hanford, Washington. (This reactor is used to produce
weapons material but sells excess steam to the Bonneville
Power Administration.) However, AEC no longer objects to
showing the increased charge for uranium enrichment in
the FY 1976 budget, which will be included under proposed
legislation. In addition, AEC and Bonneville appear to
have reached a satisfactory basis upon which to negotiate
an increased price for the steam from the N Reactor.
Interior
The appeals for the Office of Coal Research (OCR), totalling
$25 million in outlays, are in three areas: coal demonstra-
tion plant program, transmission/distribution research, and
administrative support costs.
5
OCR indicates that $8 million is critical to ensure that
the coal demonstration program is not held up because of
inability to order long-leadtime items, and Interior
FORD
has agreed not to further appeal other items if this
additional allowance is approved. OMB would agree that
this is the priority area for restoration of funds.
Appeals for the Bureau of Mines, totalling $6 million in
outlays, are for continuing a demonstration wood waste-to-
oil project and for expanding its underground stimulation
program for secondary and tertiary recovery of oil and gas.
We believe these increases are without program merit.
Interior will not further appeal.
In the Transmission/Distribution R&D program an increase of
$3.5 million in outlays is appealed primarily to keep FY 1976
at the FY 1975 program level. Interior will not appeal to
you for a further increase with approval of this allowance.
NSF
An additional $11 million in outlays is appealed for
solar R&D over an OMB mark of $53 million which has
already allowed substantial increases relative to FY 1975.
Thus, no additional allowance is recommended. No further
appeal is anticipated.
The Agency appeal for geothermal R&D is $11 million in
outlays over its initial allowance of $16 million. The
present OMB mark, while below the 1975 level of $20 million,
allows for continuing research on advanced technology
subsystems but relies more on the private sector to apply
technology. NSF will not appeal.
Summary of ERDA FY 1976 Budget and Appeal Actions
Director's
Agency
Revised OMB
Req.
Review
Appeal
Recom.
AEC programs
3,554
3,313
+193
+32
Interior programs
423
349
+39
+12
EPA programs
16
9
-
-
FEA programs
3
3
-
-
NSF programs
66
73
+22
-
Total Outlays
4,062
3,747
+253
+44
TAB A
ENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION
1976 Budget
Summary of Resources and Personnel
Employment,
(in millions)
end-of-period
Budget
Full-time
Authority
Outlays
Permanent
Total
1974 actual
1/
2,490
2,326
6,742
7,016
1975 January Budget
3,431
3,128
7,105
7,436
enacted
3,545
3,231
XXX
XXX
OMB recommendation
3,496
3,135
7,400
7,731
1976 agency request (AEC-NRC + DOI + NSF
+ EPA + FEA)
4,508
4,062
8,134
8,785
OMB recommendation
4,204
3,791
7,611
7,950
Transition period
OMB recommendation
1,172
1,108
7,611
7,950
1977 OMB estimate
4,639
4,539
7,828
8,167
1/ Estimates for 1974 and 1975 are computed from personnel and resources associated with those
programs designated for transfer to ERDA.
GERALD
LIBRARY
FORD
TAB B
Summary of Energy
and ERDA Programs
(Outlays in $ millions)
Agency
Directors
FY 1976
Revised OMB
FY 1974
FY 1975
Request
Review
Appeal
Recommendation
Energy R&D Programs
Fission (inc. laser uranium
540
682
761
747
+24
+5
enrichment)
LMFBR
(354)
(449)
(449)
(457)
(8)
(0)
Fusion
99
147
202
207
-
-
Fossil fuel
79
231
404
344
+17
+8
9
23
91
54
+11
0
Solar
Oil, Gas, Shale
13
28
43
38
+6
0
Environment Control (inc.
58
52
80
49
-
-
stack gas cleaning)
Conservation
GERALD
36
55
132
is
79
+15
+4
Geothermal
FORD
7
20
27
21
+11
0
Other
LIBRARY
5
10
15
15
-
I
Total Energy R&D
845
1,243
1,755
1,553
+84
+17
Less Non-ERDA Programs
-135
-199
-320
-215
-
-
Total ERDA Energy R&D
710
1,049
1,435
1,338
+84
+17
Non-Energy R&D Programs
Defense related
1,344
1,494
1,657
1,602
+17
+10
Uranium Enrichment production
342
497
731
734
-
-
Other
728
717
885
835
+36
+17
Total All ERDA
3,124
3,757
4,708
4,509
+137
+44
-798
-622
-646
-762
+116
0
Less, Revenues
Total ERDA Budget
2,326
3,135
4,062
3,747
+253
+44
TAB C
1
Overview Paper
Energy R&D Crosscut Review
1976 Budget
LIBRARY
I.
Introduction
A. Role of R&D in Overall Energy Policy
Although all the specifics of a national energy
policy have not yet been agreed upon, it is
now clear that, for reasons of national secu-
rity as well as economic stability, the U.S.
must move to become less dependent on foreign
energy supplies.
R&D, although by no means the only potential
contributor to achieving U.S. energy inde-
pendence, can provide important new energy
supply and utilization options for the
future.
Thus, the overall goal of an energy R&D
program is to assure development of a range
of commercially viable and environmentally
acceptable technological options to provide
the capability to use more fully U.S.
domestic energy resources.
Due to long development lead times, major
payoffs from energy R&D will come after
1985. However, because of gradual deple-
tion of domestic fossil energy resources
currently in widespread use and an expected
increase of 50% in total U.S. energy demand
by 1985, it will be important to have new
technologies available for possible com-
mercialization in this time frame.
2
B.
Motivation for Continuing to Invest in Energy R&D
1.
Resource Considerations
Domestic Energy Consumption and Supplies
(in 10¹⁵ Btu or Quads)
Consumption
Proven
Recoverable
Fuel Source
1972
Reserves*
Resources*
Coal
12.5
10,746
33,000
Oil
34.1
272
590-1,920
Gas
22.1
257
1,038-1,701
FORD
Shale
0.0
551
1,053
Hydro
2.9
N/A
N/A
Nuclear
0.6
29,200
88,200
Solar
0.0
0.0
N/A
Geothermal
0.0
negligible
unknown
TOTAL
72.2**
40,000+
132,000+
Although oil and gas, including imports,
account for about 80% of domestic energy
consumption, they represent less than 2%
of U.S. domestic proved recoverable
energy reserves and about 1% of recov-
erable resources.
- Even at $11/barrel (in 1974 dollars),
domestic production of oil and gas
is likely to peak in the middle
1980's and decline thereafter, even
with extensive use of advanced
recovery technologies and aggres-
sive exploration of OCS and Alaska.
By contrast, coal and nuclear fuel sup-
plies--which currently provide for only
18% of domestic consumption--account
for the remaining 98% of energy re-
serves and 99% of resources.
* Entries correspond to full energy content of resource
and do not take account of efficiencies of utiliza-
tion.
1985 demand is estimated to be between 103 and 118
Quads, depending on the prevailing world price of
oil.
3
- Although domestic coal supplies are
extensive and accessible, their use
is severely limited by environmental
constraints. Widespread use of coal
without relaxing environmental
regulations will require new clean
conversion technologies (e.g., gasi-
fication, liquefaction) or those
permitting direct use of coal (e.g,
flue gas desulphurization).
- Current projections of nuclear plant
capacity indicate that in 20 to 30
years, all usable supplies of ura-
nium to fuel current generation of
reactors would be fully committed.
FORD
Tapping 98% of known U.S. nuclear
resources, represented by U238
and thorium, will require develop-
GERALD
ment of breeder reactors.
- Potentially large solar and geo-
thermal resources are currently
limited by technological and
economic uncertainties associated
with their recovery. Their eco-
nomical use will require develop-
ment of new or improved technolo-
2. Possible Benefits of Energy R&D
Could provide insurance for the future
against unavailability of reasonably
priced foreign and domestic oil, and
gas and uranium.
Could make available lower cost, more
efficient and environmentally prefer-
able technologies to those currently
available.
Could broaden range of energy resource
utilization options available to U.S.
at an earlier date than would other-
wise be the case, and at a cost far
below the cost to the U.S. if options
are not available when needed.
4
Could demonstrate U.S. resolve to
become less energy dependent and,
thus, increase-- to some extent--
U.S. leverage in international
matters related to energy.
C. Justification for Federal Participation
Rationale for Federal involvement in energy
R&D is to compensate for inability of market
system to meet adequately, or in a timely
fashion, certain important U.S. goals in
the area of national security, environmental
protection, and economic growth and stabili-
ty. More specifically, Federal efforts may
be needed:
&
FORD
- To increase the probability of success
GERALD
of the Nation's energy R&D effort by
LIBRARY
assuring program continuity despite
short-term fluctuations in market
incentives;
- To accelerate significantly achievement
of U.S. capability to make use of the
full range of its domestic energy re-
sources;
- To ensure that the U.S. energy R&D
effort gives adequate emphasis to all
relevant national goals, particularly
those which cannot be readily inter-
nalized into market incentives by
other forms of Federal intervention;
- To supplement private sector investment
at stages of R&D where appropriable
benefits are not commensurate with the
costs and risks (e.g., basic research,
first demo plants);
- To compensate for structual imperfections
in the market such as excessive fragmen-
tation and undercapitalization, and in-
cluding those which may result from Federal
intervention justified on other public
policy grounds (e.g., antitrust laws,
utility price regulations, etc.) i and
5
- To support Federal regulatory activities
and procurement required for fulfillment
of recognized missions of certain Fed-
eral agencies.
While in principle Federal regulation is
an alternative to Federal support of R&D,
in practice, past attempts to promote
technological innovation through regulation
have tended to introduce long-term dis-
tortions in the market and, in some cases
(e.g., auto emission regs.), have compro-
mised other important goals (e.g., fuel
efficiency) and created disincentives to
development of long-term solutions (e.g.,
new auto engines).
Though the need for continuing, for the
present, a Federal role in supporting
energy R&D is indicated, it is imperative
that the Federal effort be structured to
encourage private investment and to avoid
unnecessary government expenditures which
merely replace private efforts.
- Private sector participation in
planning, financing, and executing
the R&D program will reduce require-
ments for Federal support and will
increase the likelihood that tech-
nologies will be commercially viable
and rapidly introduced.
II.
Status of U.S. Energy R&D Effort
A. Status of Development of Various Energy Utilization
Technologies
Table 1 summarizes the development status
of the major new energy technologies.
B. Recent Trends in Federal and Private Energy R&D
Expenditures
On June 29, 1973, a major acceleration of
the Federal energy R&D program was an-
nounced. Supplemental funds were appro-
priated for FY 1974 and a major expansion
6
Table 1
DEVELOPMENT STATUS OF MAJOR NEW ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES
Current Stage 1
2
Date of First
Technology Area
of Development
Commercial Demonstration
Nuclear
Light Water Reactors
Commercial
in service
Gas Cooled
Demonstration
1975
Liquid Metal Breeder
Pilot Devel.
1983
Other Breeders
Applied Res.
unknown
Fusion (CTR + Laser)
Basic Res.
post-2000
Coal
Low Btu Gasification
Pilot Devel.
1975
High Btu Gasification
Pilot Devel.
1980
Liquefaction
Pilot Devel.
1980
Clean Combustion
Applied Res.
mid-1980's
FORD
Geothermal
Dry Steam
Commercial
in service
Wet Steam & Liquids
Applied Res.
1980
Hot Dry Rock
Basic Res.
unknown
Solar
Heating of Buildings
Demonstration
1974
Cooling of Buildings
Pilot Devel.
late 1970's
Photothermal
Pilot Devel.
early 1980's
Photovoltaics
Applied Res.
post-1990
Oil, Gas and Shale
Advanced Oil Recovery
Pilot Devel.
late 1970's
Surface Shale Retort
Demonstration
late 1970's
In-Situ Shale Retort
Pilot Devel.
mid-1980's
Control Technology
Limestone SGC
Demonstration
1974
Advanced SGC
Pilot Devel.
late 1970's
Conservation
Advanced Auto ICE
Demonstration
1975
Light Weight Diesel
Pilot Devel.
early 1980's
Industrial Solar Steam
Applied Res.
early 1980's
Home Total Energy Systems
Pilot Devel.
late 1970's
1/ Definitions:
-- Basic Research: Fundamental scientific problems have not been overcome.
-- Applied Research: Laboratory experiments have verified that no fundamental
scientific problems remain to be solved.
-- Pilot Development: Pilot plant (approximately 1/100 scale) operations or
prototype assembly have verified that major engineering problems associat ed
with integrated systems have been solved.
-- Demonstration: First near-commercial scale demonstration has successfully
operated, although perhaps not in an economically competitive way because
of first-of-a-kind costs.
-- Commercial: Technology is commercially available and presently competitive
with existing alternatives.
2/ Rapid commercial introduction could follow by 5-10 years, depending on relative
economics.
7
of the program was approved by the Congress
for FY 1975.
- The FY 1975 program includes over $1.8
billion for direct energy R&D and an
additional $200 million for supporting
basic and environmental, and health
effects research. The estimated five-
year cost of the program is $11.3
billion in Federal funds with sub-
stantial additional funds expected
from the private sector.
- Program balance shifted away from
nuclear: 63% nuclear and 37% non-
nuclear in 1974; 49% nuclear and
51% non-nuclear in 1975.
FORD
is
- Major R&D increases from 1974 to
1975: coal, geothermal, solar, nu-
SERALD
LIBPARI
clear fusion and fission, and envi-
ronmental control.
- No significant additional Federal
funding in 1975 for end-use con-
servation (including automotive)
and oil shale R&D.
Though difficult to estimate accurately,
private sector funding for energy R&D cur-
rently appears to be over $1 billion an-
nually and increasing substantially.
- A survey of 1,400 firms indicates
increases in private spending on
energy R&D of over 20% in both 1973
and 1974.
- The energy R&D areas with the
greatest growth rates in private
support between 1972 and 1973 were
coal (60%) , oil shale (20%), and
nuclear fission (40%).
Table 2 compares the estimated dollar levels
of Federal and private sector expenditures.
8
Table 2
Private and Federal Energy R&D Expenditures
(Millions of Dollars)
Private Funding
(Lower Limits) *
Federal Funding (OBS)
Program Area
CY 1974
FY 1974
FY 1975
1.
Conservation
150
46
88
- End-Use
(56)
(4)
(8)
- Improved Efficiency
(40)
(21)
(59)
- Automotive
(54)
(21)
(21)
2. Oil, Gas & Shale
395
14
40
- Oil & Gas
(390)
(12)
(29)
- Shale
(5)
(2)
(11)
3. Coal
111
136
410
4.
Environmental Control
217
66
65
- Sulphur Oxides
(17)
(44)
(25)
- Other Fossil,
Thermal
(61)
(15)
(40)
- Automotive
(139)
(7)
(0)
5. Nuclear Fission
125
629
730
6. Nuclear Fusion
3
101
176
7. Other
6
34
105
- Solar
(2)
(16)
(53)
- Geothermal
(2)
( 9)
(34)
- Misc.
(2)
( 9)
(17)
1026
1614
TOTAL DIRECT ENERGY R&D
1007
* Most recent available data. Figures are based on two NSF surveys
of industry spending. Because of inevitable non-respondents,
figures represent lower limits on private funding.
9
Costs of R&D program are increasing due to
inflation.
- Five-year Federal program previously
estimated to cost $11.3 billion in
1974 dollars extrapolates to $12.6
billion in current year dollars,
assuming decline to 7% inflation in
FY 1977. (Recent cost estimate of
$1.7 billion for the LMFBR demo
plant includes $643 million for
inflation.)
- Inflation, plus the economic down-
turn, are holding down private R&D
funding by electric utilities and
auto companies but profits clearly
not limiting R&D by oil and coal
companies.
RALD CERALD FORD
Private spending for R&D in the extractive
and regulated industries has characteristi-
cally been around 1% or less of sales. In
energy R&D, the private sector's $1 billion
plus government's $2 billion for 1975 is
still small relative to the expected $275
billion energy industry sales for 1974.
- By comparison, in high technology
innovative industries, private R&D
funds have been 3%-4% and in those
where a national interest is in-
volved, Federal support has brought
the investment much higher (e.g.,
to 8% in electronics and 18% in
aerospace).
C.
Program Content of Current Federal and Private
Sector Efforts
Nuclear Fission: Efforts focused on ad-
vanced converter and breeder reactors:
- Liquid Metal Fast Breeder Reactor
(LMFBR) , mostly with Federal funds.
Utility consortium contributing
$250 million for first demonstra-
tion plant.
10
- Largely private development of ad-
vanced converter High Temperature
Gas Cooled Reactor (HTGR) with
government support, mainly in
fuel cycle and safety.
- Small federally-funded efforts on
gas cooled and molten salt breeder
concepts.
- Federal and privately-funded efforts
on new technologies for uranium
enrichment.
Coal: Efforts focused on advanced mining tech-
nology, coal gasification and liquefaction,
and direct combustion:
- A joint government/American Gas Associ-
ation Pilot Plant Program in high Btu
gasification (1/3 industry, 2/3
government funding).
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
- Pilot plant projects for liquefaction;
two government-funded, two cost-
shared, and several exclusively
industrial process development units
(lab scale).
- Joint Federal/industrial effort on
advanced coal mining technology.
- Mostly Federal effort in advanced
direct combustion of coal.
Oil, Gas and Shale
- Small Federal effort in advanced oil
and gas recovery. Large private
sector effort.
- Small Federal and private R&D or in-
situ recovery of oil shale. No
significant Federal R&D on surface
technology because it is substantially
developed.
11
Conservation
- Small Federal efforts in end-use con-
servation, in residential/commercial,
and industrial and transportation
sectors. Private efforts significant
but not large.
- Federal auto R&D on gas turbines,
steam engines, stratified charge.
Major private efforts in stratified
charge, gas turbine, and improvements
to current internal combustion engine.
- Federal efforts (mostly cost-shared)
in electric transmission; distribution
and storage small compared with indus-
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
trial support.
Other Energy Sources
- Federal solar program distributed
across the various solar technologies,
plus a congressionally mandated demo-
stration program in solar heating and
cooling.
- Federal geothermal efforts concentrate
on resource assessment, advanced com-
ponents and uncertain resources (hot
dry rock). Private sector proposes
a 50 Mw demonstration plant.
- Fusion programs (both magnetic con-
finement and laser) largely funded
by government with small private
laser fusion efforts.
Environmental Control Technology
- First generation sulphur removal
technology development programs are
now at demonstration phase and have
been funded both by private sector
as well as government.
12
III. Energy R&D Program Strategy
A. Impact of Current Energy Policy on R&D Program
So far, the energy R&D program has not been
hampered by the lack of a detailed national
energy policy because:
- longer-term payoff of most R&D allows
some decoupling from near-term policy
decisions.
- developing technical options can be
pursued without firm commitment to
rate or scope of their commercial
application.
FORD
- existence of substantial national
consensus for broadening and accel-
LIBRARY
erating energy R&D programs.
However, U.S. cannot continue to plan R&D
program without clear policies on imports,
incentives, regulations, etc. Lack of such
policies is beginning to impair both Federal
and private R&D and demonstration efforts.
- Colony group postponed first commer-
cial oil shale plant citing rising
costs plus uncertainty over govern-
ment policy on stimulating develop-
ment of shale.
- NSF/FEA survey of industry R&D on
synthetic fuels indicates commitment
levels depend greatly on early reso-
lution of uncertainties in Federal
leasing, strip mining, and emission
policies.
- Uncertainty over NOx standard for
autos tends to bias industry R&D
towards less efficient engines which
are sure to meet most rigid standard.
As R&D projects get into more expensive
development and demonstration phases,
where fewer options can be carried, it
13
becomes more critical to know which
options are consistent with strategy
and timing of overall energy policy.
Examples:
- Natural gas deregulation might de-
crease the payoff in near-term of
high Btu gas from coal program.
- If synthetic fuels were to become a
key element in pre-1985 Federal
energy strategy, a "crash" program
on coal and oil shale conversion R&D
(at expense of other R&D efforts) may
warrant consideration.
FORD
B.
Other Major Planning Uncertainties Affecting R&D
Program Strategy
Urgency: The expected time when new energy
technologies, proposed for development, will
be needed to expand useable energy resource
base.
Economics: Future commercial competitive-
ness of new energy technologies. There are
two aspects:
- Uncertainty in the cost of the energy
from new technologies.
- Uncertainty concerning the future
prices of domestic and foreign fuel
alternatives.
Environmental: Types of pollutants to be
regulated in the future and degree of reg-
ulation, as well as a lack of knowledge
concerning the precise cost of control for
pollutants already under regulation.
Technical Risk: Sophisticated new technol-
ogies require solutions to difficult tech-
nical problems.
14
C. Criteria for Structuring Energy R&D Program
Priorities among specific R&D areas (e.g.,
nuclear, coal, solar, etc.) are determined
by:
- Potential impact of new technology
on energy supplies.
- Timing of impact.
- Probability R&D will be successful.
- Environmental consequences of new
technology.
GERALD FORD LIBRAFT
- Severity of any barriers to rapid
commercialization.
Additional criteria for Federal R&D efforts
relate to extent to which Federal support is
needed to supplement private efforts in order
to ensure timely development of an important
energy technology (see p. 4).
D. General Elements of Current Federal Energy R&D
Strategy
Minimum Federal involvement in R&D projects
with good potential for early commercial
payoff and where substantial private sector
resources and capability exist (e.g., oil
and gas recovery, conservation, automotive,
etc. )
Strong Federal support, on a cost-shared
basis, for longer-term (10 years +) R&D
programs aimed at making use of vast U.S.
coal and nuclear resources (e.g., breeder
nuclear reactor, coal liquefaction and
gasification, etc.).
- This includes partial Federal support
of expensive, high-risk, first-of-à-
kind demonstration plants.
15
Continuing Federal support of programs in
basic research, environmental and health
effects research, and safety where there is
no strong incentive for private sector
efforts.
Continuing Federal support, even without
substantial industry cost-sharing, of
very long-range, high-risk R&D programs
which have potential for great payoff
(e.g., fusion, central station solar
electric).
D. Level of Effort Considerations
The appropriate levels of effort for
Federal energy R&D programs are deter-
mined principally by three factors:
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
- Time at which certain technologies
are desired for commercial intro-
duction.
- The expected level of private sector
effort.
- The acceptable level of risk of not
completing developments at the desired
times.
- Capability of program to usefully
absorb funds.
There are, generally, three possible Feder-
al strategies:
- Crash: This strategy would entail the
Federal Government funding all poten-
tially promising technological options,
through the demonstration phases, at
the earliest possible time and with
little or no reliance on private sector
funding. Obviously, the most risk
averse approach. Federal expenditures
would be $25-30 billion over the next
10 years.
16
- Accelerated but Orderly: This strategy
would imply that the Federal Government
ensure that no major resource utilization
options are being ignored. Federal
Government would support research with
nonapplicable benefits and would share
costs with private sector on expensive,
high-risk projects that appear most
promising. Federal expenditures would
be $15-20 billion over the next ten
years.
- Minimum: Federal Government would only
fund research in essential areas with
nonappropriable benefits such as health
effects research, support of regulatory
activities, and basic research. Little
or no government risk-sharing on pilot
or demonstration plants. Federal expend-
iture would be $3-5 billion over the
next 10 years.
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
Crash strategy would:
- Ensure results of R&D at earliest time.
- result in some inevitable waste due to
pursuit of parallel technical approaches
and rapid program buildings.
- make transfer of technologies into com-
mercial use harder due to large govern-
ment role in R&D and early demonstration.
Minimum program would:
- not ensure that nuclear and coal options
would both be viable by late 1980's.
- not result in exploring the potential
of other major long-term options (geo-
thermal, solar, fusion).
17
FY 1975 strategy for Federal level of effort
is accelerated but orderly. Current five-
year program ($11.3 billion Federal, plus
industry investment) would provide for
developing, by 1985, major technological
options in coal (i.e., liquefaction and
gasification) and nuclear (i.e., LMFBR),
as well as exploring the feasibility of
other major long-term options (e.g., fusion,
solar electric, etc.).
Major reductions (say -25%) from current
annual level of Federal expenditure would
result either in slowing down the overall
effort by 3-5 years, or in dropping some
major R&D approaches (which would increase
risk of not achieving program objectives
in a timely fashion).
FORD is 07V830
Major increases (say +25%) would permit
acceleration of some of the longer-term
options (e.g., solar) but, in general,
would permit more technical approaches
to be funded rather than significantly
accelerate the results of major programs
such as the LMFBR or coal liquefaction.
TAB D
Issue Paper
Energy Research and Development Administration
1976 Budget
Issue #1: Positron-Electron Project
Statement of Issue
Should a major new experimental facility be provided for high energy physics research in the 1976 Budget
or deferred?
Background
High energy physics is at the frontier of scientific exploration into the basic nature of matter and
energy. The U.S. program currently uses four large AEC accelerators and a major NSF supported accelerator
as the primary experimental tools for this research: the FERMILAB (the newest and most powerful accelerator
in the world--dedicated last May) near Chicago; the Stanford Linear Accelerator (SLAC) ; the Alternating
Gradient Synchrotron (AGS) on Long Island; the Zero Gradient Synchrotron (ZGS) near Chicago; and NSF's
Cornell accelerator.
As part of the FY 1975 allowance, AEC and the Science Adviser were requested to conduct a study of the
earliest reasonable time for shutting down the ZGS, which had been previously identified by AEC as the lowest
priority of its four accelerators. The AEC/Science Adviser Report strongly recommends that the ZGS be kept
open until CY 1979 to conduct important experiments. This is not an issue in the 1976 Budget.
AEC believes that it is essential to continue to construct new experimental devices such as the $72 M
Positron-Electron Project (PEP) at SLAC, which would allow the study of a new range of fundamental questions
in physics in a presently inaccessible energy region through use of colliding beam storage rings.
Potential competitors to PEP, only a year or so further downstream, are other "colliding beam" concepts
involving major facilities.
GERALD
Alternatives
FORD
#1. Initiate PEP facility project in FY 1976. (Agency req.)
LIBRAST
#2. Defer initiation of next large machine (whether PEP or some competing project) to FY 1978 or later.
(OMB rec.)
2
Analysis
Budget Authority/Outlays ($M)
7/1-9/30
(PEP construction, not including
1976
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
equipment and improvement)
BA
0
BA
o
BA
0
BA
o
BA
0
BA
o
Alternative 1 (Agency request)
11
2
8
2
39
22
14
29
-
15
-
2'
Alternative 2 (OMB recommendation)
-
-
-
-
-
-
11
2
39
17
22
27
Alternative #1: Pro: It is responsive to the high energy physics community's recommendations on new and
existing accelerators. It permits more rapid exploitation of discoveries of new particles of matter which
have recently excited high energy physicists. Con: It commits the Nation to 5 to 10 years of continued
operation of SLAC after PEP becomes operational in 1979 and forecloses tradeoffs between PEP and its two
competitors. It has an early budgetary impact.
Alternative #2: Pro: It recognizes that in a period of fiscal stringency and constraints on science
spending, there is no urgency for a new basic research facility of this type in 1976. It takes into
account the view of the Science Adviser that while PEP is of high priority it should be given a thorough
review and further that the need for operating funds in science takes priority over major new facilities
in FY 1976. (Elsewhere we have recommended that appeals on operating level be partly granted.) Con:
It defers a new start by two more years.
Agency request: Alternative #1.
OMB recommendation: Alternative #2.
LOALD TUFO
NRC
NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION
Comments
OMB recommended $24 M less than the Commission
request based primarily upon the sharp rate of
growth of NRC programs at a time when the annual
number of new reactors being ordered has leveled
off. Upon reconsideration and review of the
agency appeal, OMB recommends a potential
restoration of $10 M recognizing the desirability
of getting NRC off to a good start and to place
the Administration in a more positive position
on nuclear power safety and effective regulation.
The agency continues to press for its original
request and will appeal. (Issue paper attached)
Budget
Full-time
authority
Outlays
permanent
(in millions of dollars)
employment
1974 actual
108
105
1538
1975 current estimate
155
147
2056
1976 agency request
243
209
2652
1976 OMB recommendation
(including $10 M restoration)
225
195
2339
Affect of OMB recommendation
on agency request
-18
-14
-313
Transition period
52
59
2339
1977 estimate
214
207
2489
GERALD R. FORO
NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION
Background
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), established by the
Energy Reorganization Act of 1974, inherits current Atomic
Energy Commission (AEC) responsibilities for regulating the
use of nuclear facilities and nuclear materials and for
conducting a program of confirmatory assessment of the
safety of nuclear reactors, whereas AEC's development
responsibilities are transferred to the new Energy Research
and Development Administration. NRC, like AEC today, is
required to regulate nuclear facilities and materials in
regard to their safety, environmental impact, safeguards and
anti-trust implications and the financial qualifications of
the applicant. NRC is also assigned new responsibilities
under the Act primarily for environmental, safeguards and
nuclear energy center siting research and studies. As the
guardian of the public's nuclear health and safety, the
RALD FORD
Commission's budget is viewed as a sign of the Administra-
tion's commitment to adequate nuclear power safety and
effective regulation.
Discussion
Since AEC is about to be disestablished, we have discussed
the FY 1976 NRC budgetary situation with NRC Chairman-designate
Anders. Mr. Anders has taken a hard line against any reductions
in the NRC budget. He has strongly defended the regulatory
activities, the reactor safety research, and the newly
established NRC responsibilities for environmental, safe-
guards, energy siting, and other confirmatory research and
studies. In addition to his defense on programmatic grounds,
Mr. Anders cites his need to show others at the beginning of
his new assignment that he will be a strong supporter of
reactor safety research and regulatory activities.
The reductions originally recommended by OMB staff were based
primarily upon the sharp rate of growth of NRC programs at a
time when the annual number of new reactors being ordered has
leveled off.
(outlays-$M)
FY 1976
OMB (incl.
FY 1974
FY 1975
Agency
restoration)
Regulatory Activities
54
6.9
93
85
Reactor Safety Research
45
56
78
76
New Environmental, Safe-
guards and Nuclear
Energy Siting Research
and Studies
3
25
21
2
FY 1976
OMB (incl.
FY 1974
FY 1975
Agency
restoration)
New NRC Superstructure
and Program Support
6
9
13
13
Licensing Fee Refund
-
10
-
-
Total Outlays
105
147
209
195
Personnel
(1538)
(2056)
(2632)
(2339)
Although OMB recognizes that factors other than reactor numbers
impact the NRC requirements, we believe that a 33% increase
should be fully adequate for Mr. Anders to show himself to be
an effective regulator and for the agency to meet its highest
priority requirements. We are also concerned that an excessive
increase might exacerbate the normal managerial problems
encountered in establishing a new Federal agency.
Regulatory Activities
The principal justification cited by the agency for restoration
of the $4 M (127 positions) of the original $9 M OMB cut in
regulatory activities is the potential for these activities
to impact the energy program beneficially in the near term.
If required to take this reduction, NRC would stretch out
reviews of additional, future standardized nuclear plants and
predesignated sites expected in FY 1976 and delay expanded
safety review and standards development efforts on the
breeder reactor, private sector enrichment plants and
FORD
plutonium recycle. However, one-of-a-kind plants are now
being delayed and cancelled by utilities and the breeder
reactor, enrichment facilities and plutonium recycle have
consistently slipped.
Reactor Safety Research
The primary justification cited by the agency for the reactor
safety research program is to reduce the conservatism in
current licensing of commercial reactor power plants and to
improve plant availability. If required to take the original
$8 M OMB cut, NRC would delay the completion of the LOFT
project-- a $40 M facility which will demonstrate experi-
mentally the operation of emergency core cooling systems in
hypothetical accident situations. Although of limited real
value, the LOFT program has high public visibility and its
delay would be sharply attacked by nuclear critics and
nuclear vendors.
3
New Responsibilities and NRC Superstructure
Although the original OMB recommendation for the NRC super-
structure and new responsibilities in environmental, safe-
guards, and nuclear energy center siting research and studies
has provided large increases, the agency has strongly urged
that the OMB $7 M cut (129 positions) be fully restored.
Mr. Anders has stated that the Act establishing his agency
charges NRC with expanded tasks, and he is adamant that
vigorous action on these new responsibilities be undertaken
immediately. In support of this, the agency claims that
these new functions received major attention during congres-
sional consideration of the legislation establishing the NRC
and that both nuclear power critics and proponents have been
dissatisfied with past AEC performance in these areas.
Conclusion
On further consideration of Mr. Anders' views and the
desirability of getting NRC off to a good start, we recommend
a potential restoration of an additional $10 million and 73
positions in FY 1976. Otherwise, we believe that the
Administration would be subject to attack in the Congress
and by the public for failing to support adequately nuclear
power safety and effective regulation.
FORD LISBURY
NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION
1976 Budget
Summary Comparison of Agency Totals
July 1-
1974
1975
1976
Sept. 30, 1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
Act.
Req.
Recom.
Req.
Recom.
Req.
Recom.
Est.
Est.
Est.
Est.
Budget authority ($M)
108
162
155
243
225
63
52
214
218
221
231
Outlays ($M)
105
154
147
209
195
64
59
207
215
219
228
OMB planning ceiling
(Not applicable to this agency.
Agency established by Energy
Reorganization Act of 1974.)
End-of-period
Employment:
Full-time permanent
1538
2122
2056
2652
2339
2772
2339
2489
2639
2769
2869
Total
1655
2291
2215
2900
2515
3030
2515
2670
2820
2950
3050
GERALD
Analysis of Changes
FORD
(dollars in millions)
Budget authority
Outlays
LISAARY
Request
Recom.
Request
Recom.
1975 enacted
137
137
131
131
Supplementary/reprogramming request (establishment of new
independent agency with expanded responsibilities)
+25
+18
+23
+16
1975 agency req./OMB recom. Base
162
155
154
147
Full-year cost of new 1975 licensing, inspection
activity and support
+8
+8
+8
+8
Augmented inspection activity and standards development
in FY 1976
+19
+9
+16
+8
Full-year cost of administrative and legal support for
new independent agency
+3
+3
+3
+3
Augmented environmental, safeguards and nuclear energy
siting research and studies (NRC new responsibilities)
+20
+22
+16
+19
Augmented reactor safety research and procurement of new
scientific computer dedicated to program
+41
+38
+22
+20
Non-recurring licensing fee refund
-10
-10
-10
-10
1976 budget total
243
225
209
195
2
Budget authority
Outlays
Request Recom. Request Recom.
Transition period budget total
52
59
Augmented reactor safety research, inspection activity
and standards development with FY 1976 computer
purchase delivered in FY 1977
-11
+12
1977 budget total
214
207
GENALD
FORD
ANVERY
Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Outlays (in millions of dollars)
FY 1976
Agency
Director's
Agency
Rev. OMB
FY 1974
FY 1975
Req.
Review
Appeal
Rec.
Regulatory Activities
54
69
93
84
88
85
Reactor Safety Research
45
56
78
70
78
76
New Environmental, Safeguards
and Nuclear Energy Siting
Research and Studies
-
3
25
20
25
21
New NRC Superstructure and
Program Support
6
9
13
11
13
13
Licensing Fee Refund
!
10
-
-
-
-
Total Outlays
105
147
209
185
204
195
Personnel
(1,538)
(2,056)
(2,652)
(2,266)
(2,522)
(2,339)
VORD
Small Agencies
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
ROY A. ASH
SUBJECT: 1976 BUDGET DECISIONS: NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
The agency request and my recommendations, with respect to
1976 budget amounts, for the National Science Foundation
(NSF) are presented in the tabulation attached (Tab A).
Also attached (Tab B) is a short background paper on the
responsibilities and programs of NSF.
The OMB allowance for NSF in 1976 was $744 million in BA
and $733 million in outlays. NSF appealed for total
additional increase of $14.5 million (BA) : $11 million
for science education, $3.0 million for institutional
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
support, and $0.5 million for program management. Based
on discussions with NSF concerning its appeal, we would
recommend an $0.5 million increase for program management.
My major recommendations, in which NSF concurs, are:
- For basic research project support, an increase
of +$32 million (BA)--over $341 million in
1975--to sustain the current level of NSF sup-
port, particularly in those scientific disci-
plines which relate to long-term national
growth (e.g., chemistry and materials research)
and which have experienced declining support
in mission agencies.
- For national research centers and programs
(i.e., Arctic and Antarctic programs, astronomy
and oceanographic/atmospheric research), an
increase of +$34 million (BA) -over $138
million in 1975--to offset increased costs
already incurred and to purchase needed equip-
ment and replacement aircraft ($18 million) for
the U.S. Antarctic program.
2
- For the program of Research Applied to National
Needs, a decrease of -$61 million (BA) from
$135 million in 1975--reflecting the transfer
of solar and geothermal energy R&D programs to
the newly created ERDA.
There is one unresolved issue for your consideration, as
follows (detail at Tab C).
Support for Science Education
NSF has appealed for an $11 million restoration over the
OMB recommendation of $54 million in obligations for sup-
port of science education programs.
FORD
The $11 million recommended reduction from the 1975 level
reflects OMB's view of the lower priority science educa-
tion activities as compared with support of scientific
research--and particularly those activities directed toward
general science literacy at the primary and secondary
school level. Thus, in a period of budgetary restraint,
a reduction is recommended.
While not disagreeing that some science education activities
are of relatively lower priority among all its programs,
NSF believes that Federal programs in science education
are an effective vehicle for greatly improving educational
methods and meeting selected educational needs. More
important, the Congress is strongly supportive of science
education and the NSF insists that unless this program is
maintained at the 1975 level of support, the Congress will
add funds at the expense of basic research support.
Decision: Approve Agency Recommendation
Approve OMB Recommendation
See Me
There is also one potential issue requiring further analysis
and your agreement on the approach to be taken.
3
In addition to Dr. Stever's above appeal as head of the
NSF, he (as Science Adviser) has written to you express-
ing his concern about the current outlook for Federal
R&D in the 1976 budget, namely that:
- defense-related R&D is increasing by 14 percent
(largely to meet increased development costs).
- civilian programs are only increasing by 6
percent (less than potential cost increases).
These trends are reflected in the following table:
Obligations
(current est. in $ billions)
Percent
1974
1975
1976
Change
1030
Defense
9.0
9.6
10.9
14
Space
2.6
2.5
2.8
12
Civilian
6.3
7.0
7.4
6
Total
17.8
19.1
21.1
10
This is a reversal of trends over the period from 1969
through the 1975 budget (when civilian programs grew by
100 percent) and in Dr. Stever's opinion is "likely to
be viewed with some alarm by the public if portrayed as
reflecting a Presidential priority for defense
expenditures at the expense of other national problems."
Dr. Stever goes on to agree (as does OMB) that there is
reason to slow the growth of civilian R&D since some pro-
grams "have grown SO fast there is need for stock-taking
in a tight budget year. "
Beyond the ability to rationalize the slow down in civilian
R&D growth, Dr. Stever does express his particular concern
about steady erosion of Federal support for basic research
which provides fundamental new knowledge for the future.
4
The current outlook for support of basic research in the
1976 budget is a 4 to 5 percent dollar growth (from
$2.5 billion in 1975 to $2.6 billion in 1976) but over
the years, since the peak of 1967, Dr. Stever points out
that real (constant dollar) support of basic research
will decline by 15 percent through 1976. As a result,
Dr. Stever argues for a $110 million (BA) increase
spread among several agencies for research on food and
nutrition; physical sciences and engineering; climate
research; and basic health-related research.
Our current analysis indicates that in the context of
mission agency priorities and budget constraints, such
increases are generally not adequately justified.
Furthermore, despite cutbacks in basic research support,
there is no significant evidence that the U.S. competi-
tive position in science has deteriorated. Thus, a
further increase in funds for basic research in the
FORD
1976 budget is deferable in a tight budget year.
An alternative approach, should you desire to increase
Federal support of basic research in FY 1976, would be
to provide such an increase in the budget of the NSF.
This would be in keeping with the Foundation's histori-
cal--and publicly recognized--role in balancing the
overall Federal effort in basic research. It would also
demonstrate that, while nearer term civilian R&D pro-
grams are being justifiably held back in 1976, this
Administration is investing in the future through basic
(relatively less expensive) research.
If you wish to adopt this approach--and depending on
final decisions affecting other agencies support of
basic research--we will explore with Dr. Stever the
possibility of a $50 to $100 million (BA) increase in
the NSF budget for basic science ($20 to $40 million
in outlays).
Consider further increase in NSF
budget for basic research
Do not consider any further
increase
See Me
National Science Foundation
1976 Budget
Summary Data
($ in millions)
Employment, end-of-period
Budget
Full-time
Authority
Outlays
Permanent
Total
1974 actual
579 *
652
1174
1352
1975 January Budget
788
675
1335
1695
enacted
768
670
XXXX
XXXX
outlay reduction
-20
-10
XXXX
XXXX
OMB recommendation
748
660
1315
1675
1976 Planning Ceiling (excluding
ERDA transfer)
740
733
XXXX
XXXX
agency request
901
828
1385
1745
OMB recommendation
744
733
1290
1650
agency recommendation
758
738
1290
1650
Transition period
agency request
187
254
1385
1745
OMB recommendation
165
220
1290
1650
TAB A
agency recommendation
165
220
1290
165
1977 OMB estimate
741
750
1290
1650
FORD
*1974 Obligations were $646 million
LIGRARY
TAB B
Background on NSF
The National Science Foundation (NSF), established in 1950,
is the Federal lead agency for the general support of the
basic sciences through:
-- award of project grants and contracts, largely to
FORD
universities and non-profit institutions, for
basic research in all scientific disciplines
(totaling $341 million in 1975).
LIBRARY
-- support of a number of national research programs
and national centers, e.g., U. S. Antarctic and
Arctic Programs, National Center for Atmospheric
Research, four national astronomy centers,
International Decade of Ocean Exploration
(totaling $138 million in 1975).
In 1975, NSF will provide about 20 percent of total Federal
funding of basic science--an increase from 12 percent in
1968, reflecting, in part, decreased support of basic research
by mission agencies--particularly DOD, NASA.
In the immediate post-Sputnik era, NSF also initiated the
buildup of resource development programs such as science
education, graduate school development grants, and research
traineeships--as did some mission agencies, particularly NIH.
This program buildup was a part of the Federal response to the
perceived national need:
-- for more scientists and engineers beyond those
produced by the normal demand of the market place.
-- for more and stronger institutions for graduate
education in all regions of the country.
The resource development programs in NSF reached a peak of
$225 million in 1968 and have been phased down to a level of
$84 million in 1975 (largely for science education) --a level
reflecting strong congressional support for such programs.
NSF's responsibilities have been further expanded to include:
-- in 1972, a program of Research Applied to
National Needs (RANN) focusing research on
selected national problems outside the pur-
view of or cutting across responsibilities
of mission agencies, e.g., solar energy and
2
crosscutting studies of independent regula-
tory agencies (totaling $143 million in
1975 with $93 million for energy research).
-- in 1973, science advisory and coordinating
responsibilities formerly vested in the
Office of Science and Technology (OST).
These several NSF missions in basic research, science education,
and policy planning make it a visible symbol to the Congress and
the public of an Administration's support of basic science in
the U. S.
OMB strategy, since 1969, has been to review NSF resource alloca-
tions, in light of overall Federal research funding, to:
-- ensure the vitality and competitiveness of a
strong U.S. research base. OMB has used the
NSF budget partially to offset the effects of
reductions in mission agencies (e.g., DOD
reductions in radio and optical astronomy)
and to ensure reasonable balance and stability
in Federal support of basic research.
FORD LIBRAR,
-- encourage basic research programs that can
provide a more adequate scientific base for
the understanding and long-term solution of
problems of society and the economy, e.g.,
energy, environment.
-- provide limited support for specific problem-
focused basic and applied research through
the stage of feasibility testing--not other-
wise provided for by mission agencies (e.g.,
solar energy, much of which is now to be
transferred to ERDA).
TAB C
Issue Paper
National Science Foundation
FORD
Science Education Program
AIBRARY
Statement of the Issue
What should be the level of the NSF Science Education Program
in 1976?
Background
In the post-Sputnik era, the NSF science education pro-
grams--along with graduate traineeship and academic insti-
tutional development grant programs--were initiated to meet
the perceived need for additional and more capable scientists
and institutions for graduate training.
By the late 1960's, the U.S. had developed an adequate
supply of scientific and technical manpower and sufficient
institutional capability and, thus, these programs have
been phased back. Because of strong congressional support
(e.g., constituency ranges from primary and secondary schools
through graduate schools), the NSF program has leveled off to
between $60 and $70 million since 1973. To better utilize
this reduced funding, in light of the needs of the 1970's,
program objectives have been redefined and are:
1. To assure that the U.S. has an appropriate level
and mix of scientific and technical manpower with
greater participation by women and minorities.
2. To improve the understanding of science among a
broad range of students at various educational
levels (i.e., science literacy).
3. To increase the effectiveness of science educa-
tion through technological, instructional and
organizational changes.
Analysis
The current situation, with respect to NSF's appeal, is
as follows (including $4 million deferred from 1975) :
2
$ in millions)
Obligations
Outlays
NSF 1975 Program level
61
64
NSF 1976 Recommendation
65
63
OMB 1976 Recommendation
54
60
NSF Recommendation
NSF believes that since its program objectives were redefined
at the instigation of OMB, there exists a commitment to main-
tain the 1976 funding level. In addition, although the main
job of building academic institutions has been achieved, NSF
believes that a science education program can achieve consid-
erable leverage as a way of stimulating improvement in the
educational system and of meeting selected needs as they
arise. Dr. Stever insists that he must have a program level
in 1976 at the appropriated level of 1975 ($65 million) to
mollify the strong Congressional pressure.
OMB Recommendation
In the view of OMB, the Federal role in many aspects of objective
2 (i.e. increasing general science literacy) and objective 3
(i.e. improving educational effectiveness) is more appropriately
addressed in the context of the total educational process than
just in science programs.
FORD LIBRARY
COUNCIL ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
COMMENTS
See attached discussion paper
Full-time
Budget
permanent
authority outlays
employment
(in thousands of dollars)
1974 actual
2,466
2,603
44
1975 current estimate
2,500
2,500
50
1976 agency request
3,000
3,000
50
1976 OMB recommendation
2,700
2,700
50
1976 agency recommendation
2,800
2,800
50
Effect of OMB recommendation
on agency request
-300
-300
--
Transition period
675
675
50
1977 estimate
2,700
2,700
50
DISCUSSION OF RECOMMENDATIONS
CEQ is requesting an increase of $500 K to cover the full-year cost of
the pay raise, the increased costs of other administrative services,
and to restore the amount available for contract studies to roughly
the 1973 level. CEQ points out that if the total appropriation for
the agency is held to the 1975 level of $2.5 M, the necessity of
absorbing uncontrollable costs such as statutory salary increases
and GSA space reimbursements would leave only $300 K for the contract
study program, compared to $400 K available for this purpose in
1975 and $700 K in 1974.
With respect to the level of funding for contract studies, OMB had
recommended adding enough to the appropriation to keep the program
at the current (1975) level of roughly $400 K. This would require
an increase in the agency's budget from $2.5 M to $2.6 M in FY 1976.
CEQ objected and insists that a minimum of $2.8 M is essential; it
wants a $600 K contract level in FY 1976. OMB discussed a compromise
of $2.7 M (giving a contract studies level of $500 K) but CEQ still
believes $2.8 M is necessary.
The requested increase also would provide an additional amount of
$30 K for support of the Citizen's Advisory Council on Environmental
Quality. Past practice has been for CEQ and the American Conservation
Association to contribute $50 K and $100 K respectively. The proposal
for 1976 is for CEQ and ACA to contribute $80 K apiece. OMB recommends
against increasing the Federal share. This Council is under consideration
for extension which OMB also recommends against because it has served its
purpose. If the Council is not extended, OMB recommends that these
funds be used for contract studies. This Council has been given financial
support by the Rockefeller family.
CEQ has ten ungraded positions authorized in its substantive legislation.
The average salary in 1976 for these ten positions is $33 K. OMB
believes that this rate is becoming very high and recommends advising
the agency to start phasing these positions into the regular GS
series. Part of CEQ's appropriation authorization expires this year
and an extension will be needed for 1976 and 1977. OMB believes that
the provision authorizing the ungraded positions should be repealed
when the Act is extended.
Decision: Approve agency recommendation ($2.8 M; $80 K for Advisory
Council)
Approve OMB recommendation ($2.7 M; $50 K for Advisory
Council)
FEDERAL ENERGY ADMINISTRATION
A summary of the agency request
and OMB recommendation is
included in the discussion
which follows.
FORD LIBRARY is -
Federal Energy Administration
Original
OMB revised
Est.
FEA req.
OMB recom.
FEA appeal
recom.
1975
1976
1976
1976
1976
BA ($M)
124.8
146.9
100.6
127.8 (+27.2) 110.1 (+9.5)
positions
3050
1951
1609
1802 (+193)
1715 (+106)
FEA request/OMB recommendation
OMB's original recommendation was $46.3M less than requested
by the FEA.
This reduction was accomplished by:
-- holding FY76 contract funds level with FY75 ($46.5M as
opposed to $77.3M request) ; and,
-- agreeing to FEA's reduction in fuel allocation program
personnel, but not agreeing to replace them with as
many personnel in the areas of energy resource develop-
ment, policy and analysis, and administrative overhead.
FEA appeal/OMB revised recommendation
FEA appealed for an increase of $8.3M for 193 additional
positions, and for $18.9M in contract funds.
OMB recommends an increase in its original recommendation
of $3.2M for 106 additional positions, and $6.3 for contracts,
all of which would provide FEA with the necessary flexibility
to carry out high priority energy initiatives.
FEA has agreed to this revised recommendation, which increases
FEA's FY75 budget authority to $110.1M.
FORD LIBRARY it
2
Federal Energy Administration
Budget authority
Outlays
Employment
($1000)
($1000)
(FTP/Total)
1975 current estimate
124,835
118,343
3,050
1976 agency request
146,965
175,425
1,951
OMB recom.
100,600
129,160
1,609
agency reclama.
127,775
-
1,802
OMB rev. recom.
110,050
138,510
1,715
Transition period
agency request
36,681
38,490
1,951
OMB recom.
25,150
27,960
1,609
OMB rev. recom.
27,500
30,310
1,715
1977 estimate
110,050
126,765
1,715
1/
adjusted to account for increase in OMB revised recommendation
for FY 1976.
FORD
TENNESSEE VALLEY AUTHORITY
Comments
OMB recommendation would provide
for continuing ongoing construc-
tion at the same level as FY 1975,
consistent with other water
resources programs. It further
allows for a $5B increase in the
debt ceiling on outstanding
bonds-power program.
FORD
New water construction starts are
now under consideration by the
President.
Full-time
Budget
permanent
authority
Outlays
employment
(in thousands of dollars)
1974 actual
45,700
401,100
14,001
1975 current estimate
77,400
800,000
14,082
1976 agency request
20,119,000
950,000
16,050
1976 OMB recommendation
5,087,800
929,200
15,100
Effect of OMB recom-
mendation on agency
request
-15,031,200
-20,800
-950
Transition period
25,100
220,000
15,100
1977 estimate
100,000
213,900
16,500
FEDERAL POWER COMMISSION
A summary of agency request and OMB
recommendation is included in the
discussion of unresolved issues which
follows.
GERALO FORD )
FEDERAL POWER COMMISSION
Original
FPC
Est.
FPC 1976
Original
1976
OMB revised
1975
Request
OMB recom.
Appeal
recom.
BA
33.2
47.3
35.5
37.5 (+2.0)
36.0 (+.5)
Positions
1320
1693
1398
1398
1398
Issue
In view of FPC's appeal, should OMB's fiscal year 1976 recom-
mendation of $35.5M for FPC be revised?
Background
OMB originally recommended an increase of $2.3M and 78 positions
over FY 1975 for FPC, based on detailed analysis of historical
and projected workload.
FPC agreed to OMB's increase of 78 positions, but has appealed
for restoration of $2.0M for salaries and other overhead
expenses.
OMB offered to increase its original recommendation by $.7M, on
the grounds that $.4 to $.7M could be justified to give FPC
added flexibility to cover unpredictable future overhead
costs.
FPC did not agree, indicating it could settle for no less
than the full $2.0M increase.
Alternatives
#1 +2.0M increase (FPC position)
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
#2 +0.5M increase (Revised OMB recommendation)
#3 no addition (Original OMB recommendation)
Analysis
FPC estimates of the percentage of authorized positions filled
over the entire year of FY 1976 are too high based on past
experience in FPC and comparable Federal agencies. This
unwarranted assumption accounts for nearly half of the appeal
($.8M).
The $1.2M remainder of FPC's appeal is to cover estimated
additional costs for space rental, supplies, travel, and
2
automated data processing. Because of uncertainty over rapidly
rising costs for space rental and supplies, the request for
a $.5M increase in these areas is justified. However, the
requested increase of $.7M for travel and automated data
processing is not justified because basic planning factors
such as the number of employees or general level of
program activity are not increasing significantly.
Recommendation
Alternative #2 - increase of $.5M. Although the $1.5M increase
not recommended might seem to be a small amount, including it
in FPC's FY 1976 budget will raise the base from which FPC
will expect future increases.
FORD LIGRATT
FEDERAL POWER COMMISSION
Budget
Full-Time
Authority
Outlays
Permanent
(in thousands of $)
Employment
1975 current estimate
33,163
36,803
1320
1976 agency request
47,306
46,531
1693
OMB recom.
35,436
35,210
1398
agency appeal
37,458
37,225
1398
OMB revised recom.
35,976
35,740
1398
unresolved difference
(1,482)
(1,485)
(none)
Transition period
agency request
10,858
10,897
1693
OMB recom.
8,150
8,098
1398
agency appeal
9,623
9,573
1398
OMB revised recom.
8,634
8,578
1398
unresolved difference
(989)
(995)
(none)
1977 estimate
35,976
35,740
1398
FORD LEYER
FEDERAL METAL AND NONMETALLIC MINE
SAFETY BOARD OF REVIEW
FORD it LIBRARY GENALD
Comments
No change from agency request.
Full-time
Budget
permanent
authority
Outlays
employment
(in thousands of dollars)
1974 actual
60
39
2
1975 current estimate
60
58
2
1976 agency request
60
60
2
1976 OMB recommendation
60
60
2
Effect of OMB recom-
mendation on agency
request
--
--
--
Transition period
15
15
2
1977 estimate
--
:
--
INDIAN CLAIMS COMMISSION
Comments
No change from agency request.
Full-time
Budget
permanent
authority
Outlays
employment
(in thousands of dollars)
1974 actual
1,164
1,161
39
1975 current estimate
1,324
1,324
42
1976 agency request
1,400
1,400
42
1976 OMB recommendation
1,400
1,400
42
Effect of OMB recom-
mendation on agency
request
--
--
--
Transition period
350
350
42
1977 estimate
934
934
42
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
FORD LIBRANT
Comments
OMB recommendation would:
- continue basic operations of the
National Gallery of Art
- begin staffing new East building
and conservation laboratory.
Agency is unlikely to appeal.
Full-time
Budget
permanent
authority
Outlays
employment
(in thousands of dollars)
1974 actual
6,237
5,973
377
1975 current estimate
6,933
7,060
389
1976 agency request
7,896
7,862
428
1976 OMB recommendation
7,598
7,564
410
Effect of OMB recom-
mendation on agency
request
-298
-298
-18
Transition period
1,946
2,176
410
1977 estimate
7,798
7,798
434
SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION
Comments
OMB recommendation would:
- strength visitor services and
maintenance of collection
- meet major Bicentennial
commitments
- continue the upgrading of
the National Zoo.
Agency is unlikely to appeal.
Full-time
Budget
permanent
authority
Outlays
employment
(in thousands of dollars)
1974 actual
69,600
77,500
2,646
1975 current estimate
85,600
100,000
3,018
1976 agency request
122,100
114,500
3,347
1976 OMB recommendation
94,300
100,000
3,168
Effect of OMB recom-
mendation on agency
request
-27,800
14,500
-179
Transition period
25,000
31,000
3,168
1977 estimate
96,300
100,000
3,188