(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2009-10-02)
Komerath, Narayanan M.
In recent years there has been a wide discussion in S&T policy fora on the intrinsic value of countries defining S&T priorities. This paper addresses the international situation with regard to these issues, by comparing a group of 27 different countries. An empirical exploration of data regarding S&T activities in those 27 countries is carried out, in order to infer through cluster analysis different 'types' or 'models' of S&T priority setting. The analysis shows that two major patterns of scientific publication exist, with some countries concentrating on "engineering and technology" publications while others concentrate on "health-related" themes. A second important aspect is that some countries tend to select R&D areas targeting "socio-economic objectives" to be financed by public funds while others give priority to a more blue-sky research. Larger countries, namely those that have stronger military interests, tend to be part of the first group. Finally, it is shown that providing less earmarked funds does not necessarily mean lower private participation in national R&D activities. By illuminating what are the existing models of research priority setting the paper intends to have a practical value for both policy-makers and analysts.
(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2009-10-02)
Halka, Monica; Komerath, Narayanan M.; Venkat, Vigneswar
This paper studies the technological, economic and public policy issues and opportunities in developing a renewable energy economy based on 1KW to 3KW devices suitable for retail marketing. The research question is whether such systems can be popularized in the retail marketplace to the extent that families and non-governmental organizations will adopt them on a scale that substantially augments global renewable power generation. If micro renewable energy devices become popular enough for people to buy, the effect on energy independence can be dramatic. Developing efficient, cost-effective renewable power generators at the level appropriate for a single family, is a challenge at the leading edge of technology. Economic viability and policy opportunities are discussed.
(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2009-10-02)
Chowdhary, Girish; Gadre, Rajeev; Komerath, Narayanan M.
This paper discusses the interaction of technology and policy in enabling widespread rural access to clean solar electric power using retail delivery of beamed power. Recent advances in power beaming have made it possible to deliver electric power to off-grid locations using millimeter-wave beams and compact, efficient transmitters and receivers. The research question is how to bring about the public policy initiatives needed to enable widespread adoption of this clean and sustainable contribution to meeting energy needs. It is seen that this question leads to synergy between three national priorities: (a) the campaign to control global climate change, (b) the drive to improve air quality, and (c) the need for increased availability of energy for development. A benefit of the Beamed Power approach is that retail power transfer using beamed power will facilitate the realization the National Energy Technology Laboratory of the United State's vision for the modern grid.