Synopses & Reviews
Today energy and sustainability are areas of primary concern throughout the world. Energy Systems and Sustainability provides a thorough introduction to the economic, social, environmental, and policy issues raised by current systems of energy use. In addition, it describes the key physical
and engineering features of these systems.
The book begins with an introductory account of the present world energy situation. This is followed by chapters explaining basic energy concepts and describing the magnitudes and patterns of human energy needs. The central part of the book deals with the historical evolution and present status of
conventional fossil- and nuclear-fueled energy systems. These systems, along with hydropower and traditional biofuels, currently supply the majority of the world's commercial energy. In addition, a section on economics describes the basic methods by which the monetary costs of energy are calculated,
and discusses the external costs of energy production. The concluding sections deal with the sustainability problems associated with both fossil and nuclear fuel use, and possible solutions using new technological developments.
Energy Systems and Sustainability is the only text on the market to provide a fresh, contemporary perspective on energy and sustainability for an undergraduate audience. It is ideal for courses in energy, sustainable development, environmental science, and architecture.
FEATURES
Includes extensive coverage of the important concepts and issues behind modern energy production
Provides detailed descriptions of the main methods used to produce energy today
Lavishly illustrated with full-color photographs and diagrams
Presents in-depth case studies and further explanations on more advanced topics in boxed sections throughout the text
Synopsis
Today energy and sustainability are areas of primary concern throughout the world.
Energy Systems and Sustainability provides a thorough introduction to the economic, social, environmental, and policy issues raised by current systems of energy use. In addition, it describes the key physical and engineering features of these systems.
The book begins with an introductory account of the present world energy situation. This is followed by chapters explaining basic energy concepts and describing the magnitudes and patterns of human energy needs. The central part of the book deals with the historical evolution and present status of conventional fossil- and nuclear-fueled energy systems. These systems, along with hydropower and traditional biofuels, currently supply the majority of the world's commercial energy. In addition, a section on economics describes the basic methods by which the monetary costs of energy are calculated, and discusses the external costs of energy production. The concluding sections deal with the sustainability problems associated with both fossil and nuclear fuel use, and possible solutions using new technological developments.
Energy Systems and Sustainability is the only text on the market to provide a fresh, contemporary perspective on energy and sustainability for an undergraduate audience. It is ideal for courses in energy, sustainable development, environmental science, and architecture.
About the Author
Godfrey Boyle is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Design and Innovation and co-director of the Energy and Environment Research Unit at the UK Open University. Dr Bob Everett is a Lecturer in the Department of Design and Innovation and a member of the Energy and Environment Research Unit at the UK Open University. Dr Janet Ramage is a visiting Lecturer in the Department of Design and Innovation and a member of the Energy and Environment Research Unit at the UK Open University.
Table of Contents
1. Introductory Overview,
Godfrey Boyle2. Primary Energy, Janet Ramage
3. Energy Needs, Bob Everett and Janet Ramage
4. Forms of Energy, Janet Ramage
5. Coal, Janet Ramage
6. Heat to Motive Power, Janet Ramage and Bob Everett
7. Oil and Gas, David Crabbe
8. Engines and Turbines, Janet Ramage, Bob Everett, David Crabbe
9. The Rise of Electric Power, Janet Ramage and Bob Everett
10. Principles of Nuclear Power, Janet Ramage
11. The Future of Nuclear Power, David Elliott
12. Principles of Energy Costing, Bob Everett
13. Penalties, Janet Ramage, Bob Everett, Stephen Peake, Godfrey Boyle
14. Remedies, Godfrey Boyle