[en] Current trends in research in medium energy physics with electromagnetic probes are reviewed briefly and design objectives are proposed for a national continuous beam 2 GeV electron accelerator. Various types of accelerator systems are discussed and exploratory designs developed for two concepts, the linac-stretcher ring and a modified microtron system. Preliminary cost estimates indicate that a linac-ring system which meets all the design objectives and uses state-of-the-art technology can be built for approximately $25 million. However, the double-sided microtron shows promise for development into a substantially less expensive facility. Its technical feasibility remains to be established. Proposals are presented for short term research projects directed at specific areas of uncertainty in each of the conceptual designs