We spent the majority of the meeting trying to see if there was any way to use electromagnetic energy (of any sort) in order to obtain the necessary tangential velocities to maintain an orbit. After a series of calculations and a flood of research, we found that the answer is a resounding no. The energy requirements of any sort of rail/coil gun are far beyond the capabilities of any modern capacitors or batteries. Even if we take the raw energy ratings of modern capacitors and batteries, there is simply not enough to enact the change of velocity that we need. This has led us to the conclusion that chemical energy, in the form of a rocket, is essentially the only way to go. At this upcoming meeting, we will start discussing different fuel + oxidizer combinations, as well as potential rocket and satellite designs.
Nobody told us we couldn't do it. That, or we didn't listen.