Windows

Add the users to super users, then open the policy editor and add poweruser to Load and Unload Device Drivers and Modify Firmware enviornment Variables.

That should allow you to do what you want.

Add the users to the Power Users group. This will allow them to configure the workstation but not give them full rights.

Ok, try this.

Go to start programs administative tools... computer management
Open Local Users and groups.
Add all of your users to PowerUsers group

Then goto start, programs, administrative tools, Local Security Policies.
Open the Local Policies on the Left side and choose User rights assignment.
On the left hand side doble click Load and Unload Device Drivers and Modify Firmware enviornment Variables.
Select add and highlight the power user group. Add these to the Policy and thensave the settings.

This should allow you to do what you need.

Ok, in addition to the above, add Poweruser to
Create Pagefile,
Debug Programs,
and Take Ownership of files or other objects.

I would also allow access to change system Time if this is not already defined.

Keep in mind that i have not tested this, and it may create some insecurity on the system.

I hope it helps.