Product Description
What is Russia's potential as a partner in the global race towards a low-carbon economy? This book provides a balanced analysis of Russia's impressive, understudied and sometimes surprising strengths in the renewable energy sector. The work is a first of its kind, exploring the significant political and economic obstacles to developing renewable energy in Russia. The volume explores whether effective partnerships may be achieved by combining Russia's excellence in basic research and its diverse natural resources with Western management skills - and aiming for innovation and exports. Solar power, electricity reform, market niches for renewable energy and Nordic-Russian partnership are all examined in detail. Providing crucial insights for academics, policy-makers and business actors seeking to cooperate with Russian partners, this groundbreaking book raises the vitally important question of how key countries such as Russia will approach global climate politics and their own energy supply in the post-Kyoto world. ... Read more

Product Description

Due to the mounting demand for energy and increasing population of the world, switching from nonrenewable fossil fuels to other energy sources is not an option—it is a necessity. Focusing on a cost-effective option for the generation of electricity, Wind Energy: Renewable Energy and the Environment covers all facets of wind energy and wind turbines.

The book begins by outlining the history of wind energy, before providing reasons to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy. After examining the characteristics of wind, such as shear, power potential, and turbulence, it discusses the measurement and siting of individual wind turbines and wind farms. The text then presents the aerodynamics, operation, control, applications, and types of wind turbines. The author also describes the design of wind turbines and system performance for single wind turbines, water pumping, village systems, and wind farms. In addition, he explores the wind industry from its inception in the 1970s to today as well as the political and economic factors regarding the adoption of wind as an energy source.

Since energy cannot be created nor destroyed—only transformed to another form—we are not encountering an energy crisis. Rather, we face an energy dilemma in the use of finite energy resources and their effects on the environment, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels. Wind Energy explores one of the most economical solutions to alleviate our energy problems.

Customer Reviews (2)

Good Overview - would have preferred more design content
I think this book has a good overview of wind energy and some of the basic considerations when it comes to designing wind turbines.As an engineering student researching wind turbines, I personally would have liked to see more content on design instead of wind resource and siting.Having said that, the book is meant as an overview intro book, so it contains exactly what is says it does.

If you are interested in much more technical content and wind turbine design, I highly suggest The Wind Energy Handbook, by Burton, Sharpe, Jenkins, and Bossanyi.Depending on how technical you are, it may be much more than you're looking for.

Even though I haven't done any yet, I do like that this book includes end-of-chapter problems.This is beneficial if a course on wind energy required this text.

wind energy: Renewal energy and the environment
A very practical and readable book. A more appropriate title for the book would be 'Applied Wind Energy Engineering for Commercial Applications'.Takes a systems approach and does it well. The entire book is in metric units. The chapter on electrical and electronics for wind energy systems is rather limited. A more detailed discussion on control systems would add value to the book. A detailed discussion on wind energy storage systems would be helpful. An undergrauate degree in mechanical engineering with exposure to electrical engineering is desirable in utilizing this book.This book provides opportunities for readers to make innovative contributions in the area of wind energy systems.Detailed bibliography is provided at the end of each chapter. Despite some of the shortcomings, this is a valuable addition to the library of any one entering the field of wind energy. ... Read more

Product Description
The move toward sustainable energy production and use is one the most challenging and profound changes currently taking place in the world s established and emerging economies. Energy and Innovation: Structural Change and Policy Implications presents a series of informative case studies from Norway, the United Kingdom, Poland, the United States, Russia, Japan, and China that demonstrate how the pace of sustainable energy production differs by country. This variability is examined under three section headings: Part 1, Sustainable Energy Challenges and Policies; Part 2, Innovation Challenges in Different Economic Contexts; and Part 3, The Adoption of Energy Solutions by Different Technology and Organization Sectors. Part 1 examines the challenges of increasing sustainable energy production. Part 2 presents challenges to innovation in different economic systems. Part 3 surveys the range of industry sectors that are adopting environmentally friendly solutions. ... Read more

Product Description
In this practical guide, globally recognized renewable energy researcher and professor Henrik Lund describes the modeling and simulation techniques that can be utilised to ensure at the outset of any renewable energy project that the resources available will meet supply demands. A clear, comprehensive methodology is set forth for comparing different energy systems' abilities to integrate fluctuating and intermittent renewable energy sources. Dr. Lund offers a freely available accompanying software tool, EnergyPLAN, that automates and simplifies the calculations supporting such detailed comparative analysis. The book further presents concrete design examples derived from a dozen successfully implemented renewable energy systems around the globe. It makes recommendations on the first steps of large-scale integration, focusing on the more immediate issue of conversion, rather than storage technologies.

The text also undertakes the socio-political realities governing the implementation of renewable energy systems. Dr. Lund makes clear that it is the work of professionals in the renewables field to raise awareness that alternatives DO exist and that it is indeed economically and technically viable to choose renewable energy systems. To aid readers in that task, the book presents key strategies on how to overcome the inherent lethargy of entrenched institutions that seek to reinforce the status quo when confronted with objectives implying the need for radical technological change. After all, knowing there IS a choice is half the battle.

• Provides an introduction to the technical design of renewable energy systems


• Demonstrates effective methodologies for analyzing the feasibility and efficiency of large-scale renewable energy systems to help implementers avoid costly trial and error


• Contextualizes renewable energy design efforts by addressing the socio-political challenge of implementing the shift to renewables


• Free companion analysis software empowers energy professionals to crunch data for their own projects


• Features a dozen extensive case studies from around the globe that provide successful real-world templates for new installations

Customer Reviews (3)

More about European programs & politics than North American
This book focuses more on European programs and politics regarding energy than anything American.Unless you are researching this topic on a global basis, it is only mildly interesting.In regards to what is happening in North America, I found it useless.

If you are looking for specific information about various alternative energy production, this book is not going to appeal.This deals strictly with the politics and theories, not practical application.Research cited in the book is also European, and while energy is a global concern, there are occasions where information about specific regions is important.This book provides information regarding Europe.

Great for the leyman reader
This is a very interesting textbook primarily because it fills a specific niche. I think its primarily used in American colleges and universities for into level business and environmental science classes.Whats interesting about it is that it already presumes a certain amount of general knowledge about energy efficient and sustainable energy sources, yet approaches the topic in scientific way using current information to examine raw numbers. It does this in a way that is easy to understand and progressively logical.If you are looking to learn more about the numbers behind how much wind, solar and other forms of energy we can produce, then this is a good place to start.

This is a book tailored to a very narrow audience.
As such, I suspect that it is useful but not essential reading even to that narrow interest group.What it purports to do, it seems to do successfully, yet one suspects much of the information and tools it contains are already known by its intended audience.

This book describes a problem:Entrenched interests in the power generating community are not open to 'alternative' sources and so leave such things as renewable energy sources out of the planning equation when looking at large scale projects.In practical terms this results in a situation where a non-renewable energy project is presented to the public as the only choice.

It proposes a solution:Choice Awareness Strategies which it describes and presents as the solution to the problem of being overlooked or ignored.In the course of this discussion, most of the vital information is provided, to wit, the various 'tests' or models that one can use to establish the validity/desirability of various power systems and how they should be applied to analysis of the problem seeking a solution.

Finally, it provides case book examples of RES projects that have met with varying degrees of success.Interestingly, the only casebook example cited as an unmitigated success (one by the way which didn't seem to face the typical 'no choice' dilemma faced by most other RES projects) the Los Angeles Community College system, cost 6 Billion dollars in bond funding to produce a whopping great 12 Million dollars in annual savings:An investment that pays for itself in only 250 years.

The major problem I have with this book is that it is really not about RES, it is about the politics of new technology interests vs. entrenched technology interests, and a rough outline including broad descriptions of potential information tools to use in order to game or work the system.

I would recommend checking this book out of one's public/school library for this is certainly where most copies of it are destined to wind up.
Not good value for anybody out of the Alternative Energy lobby/interest group scene; for them this is a four star book. ... Read more

Product Description

Written and edited by the world's leading experts, Renewable Energy is the most comprehensive reference work on alternative energy ever published. Overall performance, cost, market potential, and environmental impact are assessed for fuels and electricity derived from hydroelectric, wind, photovoltaics, solar-thermal, geothermal, ocean, and biomass energy sources. In addition, practical and specific recommendations for promoting the adoption of renewables on a broad scale and presented and analyzed. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Probably one of the best books on renewables ever written.
Concise collection of texts treating all aspects of Renewable Energy in a grown up manner. Valuable as a starter's information source but also for experts. Covers all the aspects of renewable energy sources and many ways to transform one form of energy to another. Spans from biomass, biogas, solar collectors, solar cells to fuel cell cogeneration.

Probably one of the best books on renewables ever written
Concise collection of texts treating all aspects of Renewable Energy in a grown up manner. Valuable as a starter's information source but also for experts. Covers all the aspects of renewable energy sources and many ways to transform one form of energy to another.

Probably one of the best books on renewables ever written
Concise collection of texts treating all aspects of Renewable Energy in a grown up manner. Valuable as a starter's information source but also for experts. ... Read more

Product Description

With shortages of fossil energy and heavy biomass energy use occurring in both developed and developing countries, a major focus has developed worldwide on renewable energy systems. Currently, a heavy focus is on biofuels made from crops, crop residues and wood.

Though it may seem beneficial to use renewable plant materials for biofuel, their use raises many concerns about major environmental problems, including food shortages and serious destruction of vital soil resources. All renewable energy systems need to be investigated because humankind has limited oil, gas and coal reserves remaining. In addition, coal will become increasingly difficult to extract and will greatly increase the global warming threat.

Serious energy conservation and research on viable renewable energy technologies are needed. This book considers the effectiveness and economics of several renewable energy technologies of current interest, including biofuels, solar and wind.

Product Description
Set in the year 2016, Aqualine illustrates America's agony to wean itself off an insatiable thirst for imported oil. Under mandated rationing, brought about by protracted Middle East war, circumstances compel the White House to covertly fund a high-risk project that is sure to topple the U.S. treasury, should it fail. Initial dividends appear promising with the discovery of a remarkable fuel formula, until its priceless data falls prey to rogue entities bent on controlling world energy markets. Time is running out while little has materialized for Adam Harlow, one of many brilliant minds hired by NASA to recover the formula. When his lab assistant is found dead the police start asking questions and Harlow must quickly finish the puzzle with the few clues still at the crime scene. Elated by his success, he prepares to take his findings to NASA, but is suddenly informed that the race is over; someone has beat him to the finish line. Now teetering on the brink of homelessness, Harlow takes a job at a Califonria-based mega energy firm, which soon draws him into the hands of Rodney Panach, the world's most influential oil mogul, eager to secure NASA's priceless formula.Ride shotgun with Aqualine's dynamic characters who must dice with danger in an all out battle to reclaim sustainable energy, caught in the clutches of America's last desperato of Big Oil. Advocating for the downtrodden, this novel delivers an explosive, perilous journey toward energy independence! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A race to discovery new technologies and renewable energy
Reviewed by Richard Blake for Reader Views (4/09)

P. K. Brown has combined the elements of science fiction, suspense, and fast-paced intrigue in this novel of renewable energy, "Aqualine." The story takes place in the year 2016. Worldwide diminishing oil reserves coupled with limited strategic petroleum, and restricted ethanol availability have created international economic mayhem.

In a climate of industrial cutbacks mineralogist Adam Harlow is faced with unemployment. Harlow responds to NASA's search for scientists to re-discover the working formula for Aqualine, a remarkable a water-based fuel. The formula has been stolen by an irresponsible group. Adam soon finds himself on a path toward the uncovering of a resourceful clean-burning fuel, and a tangled web of dangerous encounters that put his life in imminent danger.

From an underground lab in a condemned building in Seattle, Harlow comes upon an important breakthrough. While working with his assistant Moi Song, from China, he is deceived into believing he is not the first to recover the formula. American oil magnate Rodney Panach lures him into a lucrative offer at Admiral Petroleum and flies him to a company location in a secluded desert.

In exchange for saving Moi Song's life Harlow is blackmailed into putting the finishing touches on the prototype plant that will corner the Aqualine market for Admiral Petroleum. While Harlow attempts an escape he goes into hiding in a vault containing an illegal shipment that has created a military build-up in the U. S. military in preparation for an altercation with China.

Dr. Heinrich Mann and his intern aboard the International Space Station come across a distress signal from the moon. By hacking into classified files they learn that Col. William Striker is moonlighting for Panach. Brown builds suspense and delivers an explosive, page-turning. Action-packed surprise ending as he brings together all the elements of an ambitious, complex and intricate plot with twists that detail danger and intrigue.

P. K. Brown has captured the latest possibilities of technological wizardry in writing his novel "Aqualine." Fiction, fantasy and an active inquiring mind enable Brown to open doors of science, technology and math to his readers. Brown uses his spare time to develop hydrogen injection systems for vintage cars. His ongoing study of mechanics, and his fascination and experimentation with automotive innovations since childhood have produced a vivid imagination and add credibility to his writing.

"Aqualine" is a remarkable novel incorporating science fiction, suspense, and fast paced political intrigue while introducing an exciting glimpse into the race for discovering new technologies in renewable energy. Highly readable!
... Read more

Product Description

It is widely assumed that our consumer society can move from using fossil fuels to using renewable energy sources while maintaining the high levels of energy use to which we have become accustomed. This book details the reasons why this almost unquestioned assumption is seriously mistaken. It challenges fundamental assumptions and stimulates the discussion about our common future in a way that will be of interest to professionals and lay-readers alike.

Product Description

The fast and easy way to get up-to-speed on alternative energy 

Because of current events, geopolitics, and natural disasters, the cost of fuel is front and center in our lives. This book provides a concise look at all forms of energy, including fossil fuels, electric, solar, biodiesel, nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and renewable fuel cells. You will get explanations, definitions, and analysis of each alternative energy source from a technological point of view.

Customer Reviews (4)

Purchased for Class
Well I bought this for a class, and I'm happy I bought the kindle version, however following page numbers during a lecture can be somewhat difficult. I've not read much word for word, but the overall information is mostly accurate according to my professors and what research I've used during class along with the book. A good basic reference for anyone wanting to learn a little about various alternative energy applications. It starts with wood, coal, pellet, etc. stoves, and gets into more technical things later.

Simple, generalised overview, but erroneous in places
This book provides a simplified, generalised overview of options that are available for energy generation, from small scale (household size) to large scale options (only available in theory).
I found the structure of the book a little strange, mixing options for electricity generation in with options for heating a house, and mixing a discussion of energy transmission in with electricity generation later in the book. There were a couple of errors also, for example showing a diagram of an Australian single phase outlet labelled as a 3 phase outlet.
I think this book would be ok as an introduction to different options for generating energy but if you're looking for something to research a project then look elsewhere.

Not What You Might Expect
As a member of a family that has lived off-grid for the better part of three years -- heating with wood full-time, using a solar/wind/generator combination to provide for our electrical needs -- I'm always keenly interested in titles that promise insight into the world of alternative energy. With a title like Alternative Energy Demystified one might expect to encounter an ecologically oriented volume that praises the benefits of existing and groundbreaking alternative energy sources. Based upon that premise, a reader would be bound for disappointment.

Alternative Energy Demystified could perhaps better have been titled Energy Demystified as it covers all methods of heating, propulsion, and electricity generation. Designed as a self-study manual with end of chapter open book quizzes, and a closed book final exam, the concise, objective entries of an incredible range of technologies, and comprehensive index also lends itself to use as a reference work.

From the traditional and widely used oil and gas through to the rarefied and exotic magnetic levitation and ion rockets, there's a little bit of everything here. The standard alternative energy giants -- wind, solar, biofuels, geothermal etc. -- are also included, but are given no more emphasis than any of the other technologies discussed. Each technology or method of delivery is given a two or three page description along with any requisite mathematical formulas and conversions necessary to understanding the topic being discussed.

Being more practically oriented, and usually looking for practical hands-on details to implement on our own homestead, this title doesn't exactly fit the bill for us. There are no in-depth discussions, no installation details included, nor suggestions for specific set-ups. There are basic, generalized diagrams that provide some sense of how a real-life system might operate are included for every method discussed.

Author Stan Gibilisco is rather conservative in his writing, playing it safe as it were. For example, in the section concerning heating with wood stoves he recommends that anyone operating a wood stove wear fireproof clothing and protective gear at all times. Living in central Alberta where the mercury dips dangerously often has us filling the stove every two hours. To any experienced wood stove users, this suggestion sounds pretty silly.

Still, anyone looking to bone up on some of the basic details of various energy sources will be well served by Gibilisco's work. Perhaps you're just curious, or are in the initial stages of evaluating which energy sources will best fit your needs in a specific situation, in that case Alternative Energy Demystified might have the information you need to start down the road of deeper research. On the other hand, if you're a general interest reader, you'll certainly be able to impress your acquaintances with a broad, diverse understanding of the energy sources available today.

Good introduction
This book provides a good overview of present and future alternative energy sources. It discusses the fundamentals from wood stoves to nuclear fusion. Note, this is an overview book, NOT a HOW-TO book. You aren't going to get blueprints on building a wind turbine but you will get a brief discussion of the technology and an overview of some very basic design criteria. The material is well laid out and very practical. Because it is something of a technical book, there are a few very simple (junior high level) algebraic equations throughout the text. Most anyone with an interest in the subject will find the book useful and an inexpensive introduction to the subject. The end of chapter quizzes help cement core concepts. The book's title lives up to its claim. ... Read more

Product Description
This is the most comprehensive guide ever written on renewables technology and engineering, intended to cater for the rapidly growing numbers of present and future engineers who are keen to lead the revolution.

All the main sectors are covered—photovoltaics, solar thermal, wind, bioenergy, hydro, wave/tidal, geothermal—progressing from the fundamental physical principles through resource assessment and site evaluation to in-depth examination of the characteristics and employment of the various technologies. The authors are all experienced practitioners, and as such recognize the cross-cutting importance of system sizing and integration.Clear diagrams, photos, tables and equations make this in invaluable reference tool, while worked examples mean the explanations are well-grounded and easy to follow—essential for students and professionals alike. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

The definitive work on future energy sources
Does nuclear power have a role in the green energy revolution? How about coal? What can we learn from Germany, arguably the world's greatest success story in green power? Morris covers all the bases in Energy Switch: Proven Solutions for a Renewable Future. The author's years of energy reporting for Germany's leading tech publisher have paid off in this book. He gives us a complete and nuanced look at all of the different energy sources -- from biomass, to fuel cells, to photovoltaics, to wind. But Morris, doesn't stop with so-called "alternative" energy sources; he also gives us a detailed look at coal, nuclear, natural gas, and oil, with impartial discussions of both the merits and the pitfalls of each.

The books shifts adroitly from the micro level to the big picture, explaining climate, economic, and social consequences. Morris also interprets the German system of subsidies and political measures in a way that is easy to grasp for American readers. And perhaps the book's greatest contribution is the author's practical recommendations for how America can benefit from some of the strategies that have been so successful in Germany.

Like it or not, energy indepenence and renewable energy is where America is headed. Energy Switch is a must-read book for anybody who wants to understand where the ride is taking us.
... Read more

Product Description
The greatest challenge of our time is to build a world based on the sustainable use of renewable power. Our massive dependence on fossil fuels has upset the very climatic system that made human evolution possible. The global economy and its financial system are in jeopardy, running hot on overtly cheap yet increasingly costly and fast depleting oil. A 100% renewable world is seen by many as an impossible dream in anything but the very long term. But not only does a growing number of initiatives and plans dare to make the change but many have already achieved it.

This rich collection presents a series of pioneering efforts and their champions, and the paths to their successes. Ranging from individuals to companies, communities and entire countries from around the world, it defeats tired economic and technical counterarguments, demonstrating how the schemes featured not only worked but did so economically and with available technology. The book is introduced by incisive research and writing by Peter Droege, explaining the challenges and setting forth a roadmap towards a 100% renewable reality.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Visionary and practical!
By far the most visionary and practical guide for the global transition from fossil and nuclear power to the information-rich green economies of the Solar Age.Exciting examples of innovations in cities, towns, villages and rural communities from all over the world.Amply pictured and demonstrated, the authors show that we humans can meet all our needs and shift to sustainable lifestyles and higher quality of life based on 100% renewable energy.These reports and studies support the Climate Prosperity Alliance and the Climate Solutions 2 computer model we advocate:$1 trillion invested in solar, wind, geothermal, energy efficiency and sustainable agriculture - mostly in developing countries - every year until 2020 can assure this shift to the Solar Age.$10 trillion is less than the trillions used to bail out Wall Street and other banks and only represents 10% of the world's institutional and pension fund assets of $120 trillion.

Our Ethical Markets Green Transition Scoreboard(tm) found $1.248 trillion has already been privately invested or committed to these Solar Age companies since 2007.We challenge governments to back these private investors by guaranteeing the "green bonds" now proliferating.We also challenge the world's pension funds to re-deploy at least 10% of their assets away from the risky investments in hedge funds, derivatives, commodity futures and obsolete fossilized sectors, and directly invest in the sustainability sectors now emerging worldwide.

Hazel Henderson, Vice-chair, Climate Prosperity Alliance; President, Ethical Markets Media (USA and Brazil) Ethical Markets: Growing the Green Economy
... Read more

Product Description
Renewable Energy (RE) sources differ from conventional sources in that, generally they cannot be scheduled, they are much smaller than conventional power stations and are often connected to the electricity distribution system rather than the transmission system.  The integration of such time variable ‘distributed’ or ‘embedded’ sources into electricity networks requires special consideration. 

This new book addresses these special issues and covers the following:

• The characteristics of conventional and RE generators with particular reference to the variable nature of RE from wind, solar, small hydro and marine sources over time scales ranging from seconds to months
• The power balance and frequency stability in a network with increasing inputs from variable sources and the technical and economic implications of increased penetration from such sources  with special reference to demand side management
• The conversion of energy into electricity from RE sources and the type and characteristics of generators used
• The requirement to condition the power from RE sources and the type and mode of operation of the power electronic converters used to interface such generators to the grid
• The flow of power over networks supplied from conventional plus RE sources with particular reference to voltage control and protection
• The economics and trading of ‘green’ electricity in national and international deregulated markets
• The expected developments in RE technology and the future shape of power systems where the penetration from RE sources is large and where substantial operational and control benefits will be   derived from extensive use of power electronic interfaces and controllers

The text is designed to be intelligible to readers who have little previous knowledge of electrical engineering. The more analytical electrical aspects are relegated to an Appendix for readers who wish to gain a more in depth  understanding. The book’s flexible structure makes its accessible to the general engineer or scientists but also caters for readers with a non-scientific background. Economists, planners and environmental specialists will find parts of the book informative.  ... Read more

Product Description
Charging Ahead foretells the world's next great energy transformation: the shift to clean, renewable energy sources. It shows how renewable energy, energy efficiency, and electric vehicles, when used together, can give us back a clean environment and create a healthy, sustainable economy. In chronicling this extraordinary technological revolution, John J. Berger provides a fascinating look at the new industries that will make it possible, and the trillion-dollar benefits Americans can enjoy by choosing pollution-free energy and transportation. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Say Goodbye to Fossil Fuels
The writing style was clear and captivating, and the ideas were well supported by a wealth of research.Be sure you understand however that the book is focused on the business of renewable energy and less on the technology and policy aspects.Most of the book is comprised of case stories which follow businesses through their struggle to make renewable energy profitable and competitive with fossil fuels.You will get an intimate portrait of the ups and downs of businesses in the industry and the personalities behind them.Unfortunately, the minutia of each step along a business's road to success or failure can become less than interesting.The book was largely a history of business dealings in the industry and I was looking for something which gave more attention to the prospect of renewables in the future and how renewables can overcome the tiresome use of fossil fuels.

A informative look into renewable energies technology.
A very interesting book.If you are interested in solar,wind,biomass and other clean energy sources then this is the book for you.This book takes you from past to present with insights on the people who are making thisfield happen.It also tells you about their business strategies andpractices.It also gives detailed information about where this particulartechnology is headed with respects to the dropping manufacturing costs anda host of other things.If you choose only one book on this subject,MAKESURE IT IS THIS ONE!enjoy. ... Read more

Product Description
Access to affordable energy is essential for sustainable economic development and improvement in living standards. The aim of this book is to act as a guide for development workers for financing small renewable systems and a source of reference for further in-depth investigation.

The book examines the issues which affect the success of a renewable energy financing program on both a financial and a technical level: those interested in setting up financing schemes for renewable energy technologies must also be aware of the technical parameters, which can then be factored into any scheme.

Photovoltaics has been chosen as the main example, as one of the most cost-effective ways of bringing electricity to remote areas. However, many of the examples and the financing issues discussed are also applicable to other renewable energy technologies. ... Read more

Product Description
This essential new title provides a contemporary overview on a major key topic of the 21st century. Written by well known scientists in the area who discuss the topic soberly and without ideology, they focus on how photovoltaic, solar power, wind power, hydropower, geothermal energy, fuel cells, and hydrogen enterprise work. Presented in full-colour with catchy information diagrams and information boxes.

"… the book offers a solid overview of possibilities of environmental friendly techniques, energy conversion, storage, and transportation"
—FAZ (German newspaper) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

FOR COLLEGE CLASSES
Good, infomative book.I needed it for college classes and it fits the bill.

Underlying Science
It goes beyond the routine methods discussed in the news...very detailed explanations.... a good deal of technology and science is presented... A good mix of small things that the average person can do and of larger projects that require major coproations and government.

Quite good...although it is not a "How to" book...

You don't mess with "the" Biomass!
I'm a lawyer, and not particularly strong in math, engineering or environmental science.When I was forced to quickly bring myself up to speed on alternative energy for a recent project, I bought several books on this topic and found this one to be just right for me.This is about as good as technical writing gets: brief, clear, accurate, and packed to the gills with information and visual aids.

I was acutely aware that this is a German book, translated from German, by German minds.There's no public nudity or electronic music, but nouns pick up a lot of definite articles ("the" biomass).And much of the information is about the current state of the financial, economic, and regulatory environment of the EU.It didn't bother me, since I couldn't find a comparable resource for the USA, but the reader should just be aware.

An affordable, good renewable energy technology book
Very good at describing, at a high to mid level, the renewable energy technologies.Liked it a lot and use it as a reference, better than the $100s you have to pay for other books.Nicely done...

A delight for the general public & scientific community
This book will delight the general public as well as the scientific community.It provides an astonishingly accessible, yet detailed introduction to the topic of renewable energy sources.A critical overview of the most important technologies which are currently contributing significantly to world wide energy supplies or that are expected to in the future are presented.I particularly liked the colorful graphics, the clearly labeled subsections, the concise summaries at the end of each article, and the reference sections, which include scientific articles, websites, and the authors' e-mails. ... Read more

Product Description
This volume is a true shelf reference, providing a thorough overview of the entire renewable energy sphere, while still functioning as a go-to information source for professionals and students when they need answers about a specific technical issue. Crafted over the last 15 years into a problem-solving tool for engineers, researchers, consultants and planners currently working in the field, as well as a detailed map of the renewables universe for those looking to expand into new technological specialties, Renewable Energy by Sorensen offers the most comprehensive coverage of the subject available.

The book has been structured around three parts in order to assist readers in focusing on the issues that impact them the most for a given project or question. PART I covers the basic scientific principles behind all major renewable energy resources, such as solar, wind and biomass. PART II provides in-depth information about how these raw renewable sources can actually be converted into useful forms, transmitted into the grid and stored for future utilization. Finally, PART III undertakes the aspects of energy planning, environmental impacts and socio-economic issues on regional and global levels.

In this fourth edition update, new material includes expanded coverage of biofuels, solar conversion, biomass and fuel cells, storage and transmission, and a new chapter on integrated technologies to introduce the hybrid systems now being explored. New surveys and the most recent research findings are included throughout.

*New, thoroughly updated fourth edition of the authoritative field guide to the entire Renewable Energy universe

*The only books to scientific principles and implementation methods, technologies and socio-economics, environmental impacts and cutting-edge advances, all in one volume.

*New material includes expanded coverage of biofuels, solar conversion, biomass and fuel cells, storage and transmission, and a new chapter on integrated systems. ... Read more

Product Description
This book deals with the emerging generation of renewable energy technologies, covering solar energy (photovoltaic, thermal and thermodynamic energy conversion), wind energy, marine energy, small hydropower, geothermal energy, biofuels, biogas and the use of wood as a substitute for fossil fuels. ... Read more

Product Description
More than two billion people worldwide have currently no access to grid electricity or other efficient energy supply. This is one third of humanity and the majority live in rural areas. The productivity and health of these people are diminished by reliance on traditional fuels and technologies, with women and children suffering most. Energy is the key element to empower people and ensure water, food and fodder supply as well as rural development. Therefore access to energy should be treated as the fundamental right to everybody. Renewable energy has the potential to bring power, not only in the literal sense, to communities by transforming their prospects.

This book offers options that meet the needs of people and communities for energy and engage them in identifying and planning their own provision. It describes updated renewable energy technologies and offers strategies and guidelines for the planning and implementation of sustainable energy supply for individuals and communities. ... Read more

Product Description

Energy insecurity is not normally associated with the Middle East. However, away from the oil-rich Persian Gulf, the countries of the eastern Mediterranean are particularly vulnerable. Their fossil fuel endowments are low, while their fractious relationships with each other have long fostered wider political insecurities. Focusing on the Jordan Basin (Israel, the Palestinian Territories, Lebanon and Jordan), this timely volume addresses the prospects for the adoption of renewable energy in the oil-poor Middle East. Featuring regional energy experts, it offers an invaluable survey.

After outlining the regional security context, this book first reviews renewable energy policy and practices in the Jordan Basin. It then considers options for greening energy use, including promising pilot projects in North Africa. The initiatives discussed encompass renewable energy finance, energy-efficient rural communities, and solar and wind energy. There is significant potential for an increase in the uptake of renewable energy technologies in the eastern Mediterranean. This window of opportunity has been created by high oil prices, energy infrastructure investment opportunities, and the UN climate change regime. In conclusion, the book considers the institutional conditions for collaborative decision-making on renewable energy. Such cooperation would deliver substantial security and human development benefits to the region, and indeed the world.