Product Description
Energy for Keeps is an illustrated guide for everyone who uses electricity. From students to energy policymakers, it helps readers of all ages understand the energy issues that now loom large in our daily news. With clear language and engaging illustrations, this book covers all renewable energy sources, the science of electricity generation, energy history, environmental considerations, and energy conservation and efficiency. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Energy For Keeps provides a good overview of resources
Energy for Keeps - a Book Review

Energy for Keeps is designed for students and adults wanting an easy to understand overview of the many resources available for the generation of electric power.It is likely that there will be a move toward electric-powered cars, and how we generate electricity will dominate the energy resource issue.The various means of generating electric power are covered in this book and are presented on equal footing.Renewable and nonrenewable sources are in separate sections.Some examples of successful solutions and associated savings are provided, but this book is light on economic data.

The design of Energy for Keeps is excellent with many simplified illustrations that are carefully placed to compliment the text.The use of sidebars cover related issues.Under a topic called "Considerations," the reader is provided a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of each resource.

Because of its clear writing style combined with its organization, readers will find this an excellent book where a great deal of information can be absorbed quickly.Energy for Keeps is a starting point for the journey towards a deeper understanding of the issues involved.Policy makers who want to know the economic impact on the consumer as well as the initial investments, limitations and life expectancies for these resources will need to supplement this book with the latest data.

Energy for Keeps by Marilyn Nemzer, Deborah Page and Anna Carter.$24.95 ISBN 976-0-9744765-5-1

Kenneth Jessen - author/journalist
BS in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Masters in Business Administration
... Read more

Product Description
Ages 9 to 12 years. In this important book, children will discover not only what hydrogen is, but also how this simple element can create clean energy, as well exploring it's past dealings with hot air balloons and airships, its present, space shuttles and fuel cells. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

JUNK
this book is a waste of time and money. Only suitable for grade 1, a general overview of Hydrogen.

hydrogen society - Toyota Fine X
In order for a hydrogen society to exist a network of hydrogen refueling stations are required. Hydrogen will be created on site or transported in liquid or pressurized gas to the refueling station.

Toyota has a concept car called the Fine-X.The fine-X is powered by hydrogen fuel cells.Stack fuel cells provide the electrical power and use a alloy catalyst requiring fewer precious metals.Fine X has four wheel independant steering system allowing turn on a dime. The fine X is a four passenger car.The front passenger seat pivots allowing the passenger to standup and walk away from the vehicle.The car will emit zero CO2 emissions. ... Read more

Product Description
Prepared and peer-reviewed by some of the foremost experts in the field, this easy-to-use pocket reference offers a wealth of information relating to wind energy and wind energy technologies. Topics covered range from wind resources to wind turbines, covering offshore and onshore power, both stand-alone and grid-connected. The book also includes vital information on international economic support schemes and incentives and environmental issues and is peppered throughout with helpful illustrations, equations and explanations. Renewable energy professionals, students and wind energy entrepreneurs amongst others will find a host of answers in this book—a practical assimilation of data, fundamentals and guidelines for application. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Clear and at-a-glance details accompanied by charts and graphics
The pocket-sized WIND ENERGY POCKET REFERENCE contains specific scientific insights packing data, equations, and wind technology facts into a small pocket guide gathered from published literature and supplemented by personal information from experts in energy agencies, utilities, universities and research. The result is a reference for any interested in wind power systems, providing clear and at-a-glance details accompanied by charts and graphics - even in color!

Great for rookies.
If you are starting to learn about wind energy, this pocket reference book will get you oriented and going very rapidly. ... Read more

Product Description

High-interest magazine-like design and approach that teaches science with clear introductions andcontent.

... Read more

Product Description
Background
What is a solar electric or photovoltaic system? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Are incentives available to help reduce the cost? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Investing in a PV system
Why should you buy a PV system? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Is your home or business a good place for a PV system? . . . . . . . . . .5
How big should your PV system be, and what features
should it have? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
How much will you save with your PV system? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
How much does a PV system cost? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
How can you finance the cost of your PV system? . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Selecting a PV provider
Who sells and installs PV systems? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
How do you choose among PV providers? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
How do you choose among competing bids? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Is the lowest price the “best deal”? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Before connecting a PV system to the grid
What should you know about permits? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
What should you know about insurance? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
How do you get an interconnection agreement? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
How do you get a net-metering agreement? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
What should you know about utility and inspection sign-off? . . . .16
What should you know about warranties? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Getting help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 ... Read more

Product Description
The science of energy is at the root of many of the biggest challenges facing the future of our planet.This book uses everyday examples and the latest figures to show how we use energy alternatives.Find out how hybrid cars work and what each of us can do to save energy.Learn the drawbacks of alternative sources of energy. ... Read more

Product Description
A balanced introduction to tomorrow's energy sources


Over the course of the next fifty years, there will be a shift in the quest for sustainble energy, including a major change in transportation from internal combustion engines burning petroleum-derived fuels to newer technology engines using new transportation fuels. Alternative Energy Reources examines our options for energy sources with a focus on hydrogen as a large-scale, secondary energy vector parallel to electricity.

As the price of petroleum products increases, the world is scrambling to find a suitable replacement energy source. In this comprehensive primer, Professor Paul Kruger examines energy use throughout history and the exponential expansion of our energy use beginning with the Industrial Revolution through the present day. The book then analyzes the various alternative energy sources available, including renewable energy (hydroelectric, solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal), nuclear, and hydrogen. He addresses each energy source's pros and cons based on our needs, availability, and environmental impact aspects. Finally, Dr. Kruger proposes the use of hydrogen as a fuel to sustain our energy supply produced by appropriate technology mixtures of renewable and nuclear energy. ... Read more

Product Description
Green living begins at home, and New Green Home Solutions tells you how. Most of the energy-derived pollution we produce comes as a direct result of our homes - how we heat them, how we cool them, how we keep them well-lit and full of things that make our lives so comfortable. The good news is that we have tremendous power to create change. Renewable energy design, better insulation and more efficient appliances could reduce energy demands by 60 to 80 percent. By embracing conservation and renewable energy, we can win our energy independence and help save the planet. 

Customer Reviews (3)

Handsome Book for Green Home Buyers
If you're like most people (especially those new or newish to ecohomes) you may wonder, if only subconsciously, that green homes have to be drab or boring looking. After all, healthy food doesn't taste as good as treats loaded with sugar and fat and safe cars tend to be boxy and unsexy. Well, New Green Home Solutions helps put the notion that green = dull to rest. It's filled with lots of high quality photos showing handsome ecofriendly homes. There is also advice among the photos, but you shouldn't buy this as a how-to book. But more for ideas: the big thesis being that you can create a house that feels as good to live in as it is good for the environment.

Renewable 101
This book is very easy to read and the pictures are outstanding.Many of the ideas presented in this book are viable and practical now especially with various incentives from the state and federal levels.I am personally planning for a PV system and greenhouse for vegetable gardening, and will check out the resources provided in the book.

A bright, appealing 'must' for any library serious about renewable resources
NEW GREEN HOME SOLUTIONS: RENEWABLE HOUSEHOLD ENERGY AND SUSTAINABLE LIVING is a top pick for any library catering to either homeowners or architect/builders. It packs in 'green' ideas and solutions for both existing and new structures, with color photos supplementing ideas for solar space heating, wind power, passive heating and cooling systems, and more. A bright, appealing 'must' for any library serious about renewable resources.
... Read more

Product Description
There are few industry sectors in the world today with more potential than renewable and hydrogen energy. Clean, green and renewable energy technologies are receiving immense emphasis from investors, environmentalists, governments and major corporations. Today's high prices for crude oil, coal and natural gas will increase the demand for renewables of all types. A wide variety of technologies are being researched, developed and implemented on a global basis, from Stirling engines to wind power, from advanced nuclear plants to geothermal and fuel cells. Our analysis also includes tar sands (oil sands), oil shale, fuel cells, clean coal, distributed power, energy storage, biofuels and much more. You ll find a complete overview, industry analysis and market research report in one superb, value-priced package. It contains thousands of contacts for business and industry leaders, industry associations, Internet sites and other resources. This book also includes statistical tables, an industry glossary and thorough indexes. The corporate profiles section of the book includes our proprietary, in-depth profiles of the 250 leading companies in all facets of the alternative, renewable and hydrogen energy business. Here you'll find complete profiles of the hot companies that are making news today, the largest, most successful corporations in the business. Purchasers of either the book or PDF version can receive a free copy of the company profiles database on CD-ROM, enabling key word search and export of key information, addresses, phone numbers and executive names with titles for every company profiled. ... Read more

Product Description
Interest in renewable energy has never been greater, but much uncertainty remains as to the role the various technologies will play in the transition to a low-carbon future. This book sets out the facts—how the technologies work, where and to what extent they are currently employed, and where the greatest potential lies. Covering all the major fields—solar electricity, solar thermal, solar architecture, bioenergy, wind, geothermal, hydropower, as well as new energy technologies—it also includes sections on how best to promote the uptake of renewables and answers to common questions and opposition. The authors provide a number of German-sourced yet internationally relevant examples and strategies which have become increasingly significant in the promotion of renewable energy in recent years. The convenient layout mixes detailed explanation with clear, take-away facts and messages on each double-page spread.

This straight-talking, information filled guide is the perfect primer for anyone who wants to better understand and promote renewable energy, whether in industry, study, policy or campaigns. ... Read more

Product Description
The wind power industry has been transformed in the 1990s by dramatic breakthroughs in efficiency, economy, and adaptability. Wind Energy Basics is the most up-to-date source available of information about small wind systems. The book includes the unique "standard small wind turbine rating" developed by the author, which is designed to help readers wade through conflicting performance claims by manufacturers in the U.S. and overseas. Also included is detailed information on planning, siting, and installing a wind system, and on integrating wind power with solar for more cost-effective and reliable off-the-grid applications.

In addition, Gipe provides a discussion of "net metering" and intertie possibilities, explaining how homeowners in many states can now sell their excess electricity back to the utility company.

Wind Energy Basics is an excellent introduction to wind power for educational programs concerned with state-of-the-art renewable energy options, and will be indispensable for those considering today's generation of quiet, efficient, and reliable "micro" wind turbines.

Wind Energy Basics describes a new class of small wind turbines, dubbed micro turbines, which are so small that they can be purchased for less than $1000 and carried in your hands.

The debut of micro wind turbines brings the technology within reach of almost everyone. These inexpensive machines, when coupled with readily available photovoltaic panels (solar cells), have revolutionized living in remote homes off-the-utility grid. And the increasing popularity of micro wind turbines has opened up new applications previously considered off-limits to wind energy, such as charging electric fences and powering remote telephone call boxes, once the sole domain of solar cells.

Micro wind turbines have been around for decades for use on sailboats, but they have gained increasing prominence in the 1990s as their broader potential for off-the-grid applications on land has become more widely known. While micro wind turbines have yet to reach the status of widely available consumer commodities such as personal computers, the day may not be far off. The use of wind power is "exploding," say Karen and Richard Perez in their foreword. "There are currently over 150,000 small-scale RE (renewable energy) systems in America and they are growing by 30% yearly. The small-scale use of wind power is growing at twice that amount--over 60% per year," according to the Perezes, the editors of Home Power magazine.

Southwest Windpower awakened latent consumer interest in micro wind turbines with the introduction of its sleek Air 303. Since launching the 300-watt turbine in 1995, Southwest Windpower has shipped 18,000 of the popular and inexpensive machines.

"What Americans, and folks all over the world, are finding out," the Perezes say, "is that wind power is an excellent and cost-effective alternative" to extending electric utility lines, and fossil-fueled backup generators.

Wind Energy Basics explains how it is possible—in some states—for homeowners to run their kilowatt-hour meter backwards with a small wind turbine.

This book confronts the common but controversial practice of "power rating" that may mislead consumers about the potential of some small wind turbines. Known for his frank style, Gipe quickly cuts through technological jargon and the hype surrounding power ratings.

"Nothing tells you more about a wind turbine's potential than rotor diameter—nothing. The wind turbine with the bigger rotor will almost invariably generate more electricity than a turbine with a smaller rotor, regardless of their generator ratings," he says.

Gipe also comes down hard on roof-top mounting. "Don't bother," he warns. "It's not worth the trouble." He also minces few words on mounting wind turbines in trees. "Sometimes wind energy isn't the right choice," Gipe says. "If you live in a forest of tall trees and you can't afford a tower tall enough to clear the trees, then wind energy isn't for you."

Worldwide, wind energy is booming. Not since the heyday of the American farm windmill has wind energy grown at such a dramatic pace. By the new millennium, more than 40,000 medium-size wind turbines will be in operation worldwide, mostly in California, Europe, and India. These commercial wind turbines, including those found in California's giant wind power plants, will produce 20 terawatt-hours (20,000 million kilowatt-hours) of wind-generated electricity annually—enough to meet the needs of more than three million energy-hungry Californians, or twice that number of more energy-conscious Europeans.

The commercial success of medium-size wind turbines, or wind farm machines, is only part of the story. Small wind turbines have found their role expanding as well. Whether it's on the contemporary homestead of Ed Wulf in California's Tehachapi Mountains, in the Chilean village of Puaucho overlooking the Pacific Ocean, or on the Scoraig peninsula of Scotland's wind-swept west coast, small wind turbines are making an important difference. While their contributions may be small in absolute terms, small wind turbines make a big difference in the daily lives of people in remote areas around the globe. Small wind turbines may produce only a few tens of kilowatt-hours per month, but this electricity goes much further and provides as much, if not more, value to those who depend upon it as does the generation of their bigger brethren.

Today there are more than 50 manufacturers of small wind turbines worldwide, and they produce more than 100 different models. Altogether manufacturers in western countries have built about 60,000 small wind turbines during the last two decades. And tens of thousands more have been manufactured in China for use by nomads on the Mongolian steppes.

Wind Energy Basics is richly illustrated with photographs of small wind turbines, from those on the Patagonian steppes at the tip of South America to those on the wind-swept shores of Denmark.

The book contains information on most major small wind turbines on the international market. It also provides photographs of common wind turbine applications, including their use for wind power plants, vacation homes, third world villages, farms, water pumping, and so on.

Engineers will like the "exploded views" of popular micro and mini wind turbines such as the Ampair 100, Southwest Windpower's Air 303, and Bergey Windpower's BWC 850 and BWC 1500.

The book also introduces the "griphoist" to American readers. This amazing tool, coupled with new lightweight wind turbine towers that have recently become available, has the potential to transform the installation of micro turbines. With the "griphoist", two people can safely raise a micro wind turbine on a specially designed tower without resorting to cumbersome electric winches.

The appendix to Wind Energy Basics includes detailed product specifications for most popular micro and mini wind turbines, as well as sources for wind pumps (farm windmills), used wind turbines, anemometers, inverters, trade associations, and mail-order catalogs that sell wind turbines. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

A fabulous read
I needed to do a power point on wind energy and it is a subject I'm interested in for my retirement property.Paul Gipe really put all of the technology in easy to understand terms and spelled out the formulas.It was a productive and concise read.

Wind Energy Basics
I ordered this book because I am interested in potentially installing a wind energy system in my home.I did not find this book helpful to that end.It is too technical.It gave details I don't think I need and did not give me information on how to determine if my home is a good candidate for wind energy.Not what I was looking for.No practical information for a home owner.

Wind
Nice photos, but no real useful information. Ordered by mistake, and returned. Not worth the money, in my opinion.

WIND ENERGY BASICS
THIS IS A LITTLE TECHNICAL TO UNDERSTAND, ANDSOME OF THE GRAPHS AND CHARTS DONT HAVE ENOUGH EXPLANATION TO THE AVERAGE PERSON . I EXPECTED A EASY TO FOLLOW BASIC BOOK ON HOW TO , POSSIBLY MAKE YOUR OWN, IN A PICTURE OR ILLUSTRATIVE WAY . THE BOOK TOUCHED ON IT, BUT WAS TOOCOMPLEXFOR A BASIC BOOK .. I SAW NO IDEA OF HOW BIG THEELECTRICAL USE OF THE AVERAGE HOUSE WAS, SO I DONT KNOW HOW LARGE A WINDMILL MUST BE MADE OR PURCHASED.. PROBABLY A GREAT BOOK FOR ELECTRICIANS ,BUT NOT BASIC ENOUGH FOR ME .I WAS WANTING TO MAKE MY OWN ( FROM SCRATCH )AND HAVE THE BOOK TELL ME WHAT I NEEDED ..

Wind Power Wanted
Very good starter book for any interested in getting up to speed on Wind power solutions. ... Read more

Product Description

Winning Our Energy Independence shares energy solutions from S. David Freeman, a man who has spent his life at the forefront of energy policy.

Customer Reviews (15)

Pragmatic solution from an experienced energy executive
Winning Our Energy Independence: An Energy Insider Shows How by S. David Freeman is an excellent book by an expert. It is an apolitical pragmatic argument for how and why the USA should change our energy use from fossil fuels to renewables. Freeman spent decades rescuing power companies and improving their efficiency. If the guy called in to save failing power companies says making them greener saves them, we should probably listen. Freeman certainly has more accurate and thorough knowledge than the people claiming we can't afford to move to renewable energy. He provides a good critique of the distorted system that has led to current inefficiencies.

"... efficiency and renewables are cheaper even on the misleading pricing system we use. If we consider--and we must--the health costs of air pollution, the proliferation and radiation risks of nuclear, and the health and global warming costs of coal, it is a no-brainer."

Now that sustainable energy is economical--but still little used--Freeman proposes using subsidies to jump-start their implementation. He proposes a workable solution that will make the world a better place as well as saving money over the long term. I agree with Freeman's assessment of the situation and the end results of his proposed solution. I don't like all the details of his proposed solution, but it is probably more likely to happen than my preferred answer of removing the existing subsides to dirty power. The existing subsidies probably won't be removed, so this is a more pragmatic, less idealistic solution.

In addition to the solution provided, I like that Freeman provides some numbers to go with statements I have heard from other sources. For example, an interisting statistic that I hadn't seen anyone put a number with is that compared to the average car, a plug-in hybrid emits 1/4 the CO2. And that is when powered by coal generated electricity. The number goes down with cleaner power plants. This is in addition to the gasoline saved, "If everyone drove an HEV 60, it would cut gasoline consumption by over 70 percent."

This is an excellent book that debunks all the arguments against moving to sustainable energy. I wonder if Freeman puts too much emphasis on hydrogen for storage, but over all his solution is reasonable. I spent far more time searching for original sources and checking his math than I did reading the book. If I hadn't, this would have been a quick read. I would have preferred better footnotes, but the format used is appropriate for the intended audience. Winning Our Energy Independence makes my short list of books that everyone should read. As Freeman says, "There can be no more urgent task for humanity than to find, as rapidly as possible, alternatives to burning the limited fossil fuels on Earth." I hope it is effective enough that I am able to move it from this list to a list of books that are interesting for their historic impact.

Typical Leftist Fascist Solution and False Science.
When I browsed this book in the bookstore, I had a feeling that it would end being a Leftist Fascist diatribe.I was correct.

It emphasized technologies like solar, wind, and hydrogen which are and will be costly and inefficient for years to come.At the same time, it demonized solutions like coal and nuclear and deemphasized biofuels.

It also promoted overregulation and pie in the sky mandates that will hurt rather than help the solution.This is the typical shortsightedness of the Fascist Left.

Finally, it seems that the author thinks if you repeat the same false arguments in every chapter, it will become eventually become true.Sorry, but that is not the case.

I will keep this book, but only until I need kindling for my fireplace.

Perfect for debates and discussion.
Author David Freeman has some thirty years of clean energy pioneering and a business knowledge which applies this knowledge to objectives of profit in the renewable energy realm. His focus on the potentials of renewable resources challenges the U.S. and the world to recreate its energy grid through independent national homegrown, carbon-free renewable energy sources. A dream? Freeman explains how the reality can be now in a survey perfect for general-interest lending libraries and specialty college-level holdings alike. Perfect for debates and discussion.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

An Inspring Overview of our Clean Energy Future
This is a terrific book for anyone who is interested in understanding why a clean energy future is not only possible, it is inevitable. We don't need oil, coal, and nuclear. We can get all the energy we need from the sun, the wind, and other limitless renewable sources. Dave Freeman has been an energy executive for nearly six decades. You can take what he says in his book to the bank. A very worthwhile read.

Speaking Truth to Power
"The United States has a lot to learn from the rest of the world."

Bold and true.No one convinced Freeman it is polite to lie in order for America appear good.No one convinced Freeman it is for Americans to drive SUVs everywhere just because they need to express freedom.One can express freedom by farting out loud in a cafeteria, but I wouldn't be proud if I did it.I would be embarrassed.No one convinced Freeman that by holding onto your arrogance and downright stupidity that one shows a measure of authority necessary to keep the world in line.No one convinced Freeman it is necessary for troops to die in Iraq so that their deaths would not be in futility, and that this simpleton logic deserves no further exploration.Freeman is not convinced that America is not above learning.Freeman thinks America will actually benefit from learning.If one is so smart to be beyond all help then don't bother reading this book.

In the last three years there have been many books on the subject of energy independence, and while there is some agreement there are also distinctions.Freeman's positions are pro-Hydrogen, pro-Lithium, and anti-nuclear.Freeman will admit that Hydrogen fuel cells need work, but believes that work here will be worth the effort.I'm not sure how hydrogen fuel cells will work in a place like Phoenix if there are 2 million cars on the road giving off water vapor when it is 120 degrees in the shade.Water vapor emissions will cause an increase in humidity and also increases temperature as it is a strong greenhouse gas until it precipitates.Hydrogen is not ready for the market.Hydrogen needs a good deal of work to make it inexpensive for manufacture and available to the public.

While I like Richardson's plan, I welcome discussion of Freeman as it has become well beyond time to get on with a new energy plan for America.Let's stop taking down the solar panels from the White House and do something right for a change. ... Read more

Product Description

Praise for Crossing the Energy Divide

“This book makes coherent and rigorous arguments that increasing energy efficiency is the primary driver of economic growth today and is key to managing climate change.”

Kandeh Yumkella, Director-General, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)

“It’s exciting to see some of the riddles of economic history solved. Energy efficiency may become the master key to future wealth!”

Ernst von Weizsacker, Dean, Bren School of Environmental Science and Management (ret), University of California, Santa Barbara

“This important new book compels a significantly greater attention to the critical role of energy productivity in maintaining a robust economy.”

John A. “Skip” Laitner, Director, Economic and Social Analysis, American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)

“Even if renewable energy sources can eventually sustain present living standards in industrialized countries, it will require decades for them to grow into that role. This book is by far the most realistic and helpful proposal I have seen for what can be done to cross the enormous energy gap between what we have and what we want.”

Dennis Meadows, Coauthor, Limits to Growth

“This book is ‘mythbusters’ applied to the conventional wisdom that reducing greenhouse gas emissions will also reduce income. It should switch the debate from what it will cost to mitigate climate change to a search for policy changes to spur profitable efficiency investments in generation and use of energy services.”

Thomas R. Casten, Chair, Recycled Energy Development, LLC

“Crossing the Energy Divide has appeared right when those of us in the energy sector need it most. Robert and Edward Ayres do an excellent job of explaining that every product and service has an energy component, and the cost of that component will determine our future quality of life.”

John K. Cool, P.E., C.P.E, President, PowerPlus Engineering, Inc.

The Environmentally and Economically Smart Strategy for Solving the Global Energy Crisis--Starting Now

If we continue our highly inefficient, dangerous energy usage, we’re headed for both economic and environmental catastrophe. However, the hard truth is that alternative fuels can’t fully replace fossil fuels for decades. What’s more, new research indicates that energy inefficiencies are retarding economic growth even more than most experts ever realized.

Crossing the Energy Divide is about solving all these problems at once. The authors, two leading experts in energy and environmental economics, show how massive improvements in energy efficiency can bridge the global economy until clean renewables can fully replace fossil fuels.

Robert and Edward Ayres demonstrate how we can radically reform the way we manage our existing energy systems to double the amount of “energy service” we get from every drop of fossil fuel we use.

These techniques require no scientific breakthroughs: Many companies and institutions are applying them right now, but tens of thousands more could. This book offers a strategic guide for using them to solve the energy crisis once and for all—reducing carbon emissions, achieving true energy security, and reigniting economic growth for decades to come.

More energy, without more emissions

Recapturing lost energy from today’s fossil fuels

There is such a thing as a free lunch

Mitigating climate disaster and improving prosperity at the same time

The future of electricity

Reforming tomorrow’s electrical system: smarter, more productive, and more reliable

The implications for cities, transportation, business, and government

Making the decisions that prepare you for a high-cost energy future

Customer Reviews (28)

Smart diagnosis of U.S. energy policy
This book deserves widespread attention for its new arguments about how energy costs affect economic growth. Robert U. Ayres and Edward H. Ayres dispel dominant energy and economic myths. They espouse making better use of existing energy until alternatives become available in about 50 years' time. The authors' simple proposal is cheap to implement, and modeled on existing projects now underway worldwide. While the text can be repetitive, the book challenges conventional wisdom, and identifies the regulatory and policy impediments that hinder the implementation of new approaches. getAbstract recommends this book to those seeking to recharge the discussion about energy conservation, and to Americans who want to accelerate the U.S.'s energy independence.

Oversells a good, but limited, idea
The idea that energy efficiency is the answer to problems of energy policy is titillating. Just be more efficient using energy, and we will have as much as we need. All clean energy too. None of this polluting, depleting fossil fuel.

But history has shown that not to be the case. Whenever we develop more energy efficient machines and devices, we use them more. Buy a Prius, and you drive it more than you would an SUV. Put in compact florescent lights, and you use them more. That's not always the case, of course. But as a rule, energy usage goes up when efficiency improves, rather than going down.

Just like buying things on sale. When we save money by buying something on sale, that feels good. But for most of us, we do not really save money that way. What we save on one product we use to buy another. The money still manages to get spent every month. And then some.

Not to say that energy efficiency is bad. Of course it isn't. But this book reminds me of when Sheryl Crow got some bad press by saying she uses only one square of toilet paper when she uses the toilet. Great that she does that. But that's not going to make any difference.

We need ideas that will make a difference. I don't think energy efficiency is one that will.

A good primer on alternative energy
A good overview of the impediments to moving from a fossil-fuel based economy to a more sustainable energy model.

However, I am a bit concerned about the focus on alternative energy generation as opposed to limiting energy consumption.Creating alternative, clean energy sources should not be squandered on unnecessary consumption; we must break the vicious cycle of almost simultaneously consuming any new energy source that we create.I would have liked to have seen some attention to conservation measures.

Recommended.

Please read this book
Robert U. Ayres and Edward H. Ayres have written a insightful book that clearly defines realistic steps to achieve independence from fossil fuels in a couple of decades.In light of the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, it's almost like the author's had premonition.The facts they present are shocking.For example, 6 out of 7 barrels of oil is wasted -- roughly 85% is lost.Incandescent light bulbs are only 5% efficient and compact fluorescent lights are only 15% efficient..In essence, oil to a light is only 2.25% efficient or 97.75% inefficient.Solar and wind power contribute less than 1% of the power in the USA and this clearly has to be built up in the years to come.

There are very compelling reasons to recycle energy.Two steel mills in Illinois are recycling energy in amounts sufficient to power their entire plants.In fact, these two steel mills produce a surplus of energy but they can't sell it because the power companies won't let them.If they put their excess energy on the grid, the power company gives them pennies on the dollar.There are thousands of factories that could recycle energy which is free and doesn't produce any additional carbon dioxide.Companies like DuPont have saved hundreds of millions of dollars through energy conservation and recycling.The typical ROI is only a couple of years and then it's almost pure savings.

The concept of decentralized power generation makes a lot of sense.In some European countries, rooftop power plants that power several houses account for up to 85% of their electricity.The conventional central power plant monopoly is antiquated lacking any significant change over the last 50 years.Over 20% of the energy generated is lost in the transmission over long distances.The authors abhor the idea of offshore drilling and nuclear power (like the 400 nuclear plants Chaney wanted to build).

This book presents a logical approach to reducing our dependence on fossil fuel using existing technologies.In other words, the plan doesn't require the invention of cold fusion.The plan requires radical restructuring of the way energy is created and recycled.Every politician and business owner should be required to read this book.In fact, I think everybody should read this book.We would have plenty of oil if we didn't waste 85% of it.

Read It and Share it with Policymakers
Title Crossing the Energy Divide: Moving from Fossil Fuel Dependence to a Clean-Energy Future
Author
Ayres, Edward H.
Robert U. Ayres
Rating *****
Tags non-fiction, energy, global warming, city planning, water, public policy, energy economics


This is perhaps one of the most important books published in this decade, and it is a book that addresses and offers solutions at this critical time of global warming and dwindling supplies of energy. The senior author, Robert Ayers, is a physicist and economist. The book explains some of the background of energy economics, and why so many economic models are inadequate because they don't address energy production and use.

The book explains the difference between energy produced and energy services - the work the energy does. The authors show that much energy produced now is wasted, and that much of what is currently wasted can be captured and used, and that this can reduce carbon dioxide output while costing the energy consumer little, because the return on investment is so high. Moreover, it is being done now, mostly in other countries, though it is being done in a few plants in the U.S. So investments now in increased energy service efficiency can be the necessary bridge to meet our energy needs until it is possible for renewable energy sources to do so. Renewables will not be able to meet the needs for several decades.

The authors also discuss other critical issues such as urban planning, transportation, water use, and more. For all the issues, they clearly lay out the issues, the needed solutions, the policy and business management changes needed to reach the solutions.

The biggest problem will be that the solutions require policy changes that end the monopolies currently enjoyed by the electric utility companies, who are major political donors.

Read this book. Give copies to your Congressman, your Senator, and any CEOs you happen to know. I plan to suggest the Daily Show have the authors on, and that the Secretary of Energy read it. THIS BOOK NEEDS TO BE PUBLICIZED.


Author - Ayres, Edward H.
Publication Wharton School Publishing (2009), Edition: 1, Hardcover, 256 pages
Publication date 2009
ISBN 0137015445 / 9780137015443 ... Read more

Product Description
As environmental concerns have focused attention on the generation of electricity from clean and renewable sources wind energy has become the world's fastest growing energy source. The Wind Energy Handbook draws on the authors' collective industrial and academic experience to highlight the interdisciplinary nature of wind energy research and provide a comprehensive treatment of wind energy for electricity generation.

Features include:
– An authoritative overview of wind turbine technology and wind farm design and development
– In-depth examination of the aerodynamics and performance of land-based horizontal axis wind turbines
– A survey of alternative machine architectures and an introduction to the design of the key components
– Description of the wind resource in terms of wind speed frequency distribution and the structure of turbulence
– Coverage of site wind speed prediction techniques
– Discussions of wind farm siting constraints and the assessment of environmental impact
– The integration of wind farms into the electrical power system, including power quality and system stability
– Functions of wind turbine controllers and design and analysis techniques

With coverage ranging from practical concerns about component design to the economic importance of sustainable power sources, the Wind Energy Handbook will be an asset to engineers, turbine designers, wind energy consultants and graduate engineering students. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Great! The book came early and in great condition
Trustworthy, good condition and the book came early.
The book is a birthday present for a friend. According to my friend, the information is very useful to get an idea of wind turbine design.

Real Handbook for Wind Energy
A deep look into the wind energy and wind conversion. Very extensive and deep into details considering the wind power technical aspects. I strongly advise for those in the technical wind energy area dealing with it.

Excellent Reference for Acedemic and Professional Engineering
I have read many similar books, I have also read much of the latest literature on wind turbine aerodynamics. Thus, I can say that of all the books written on wind turbines this book is written at the highest level. Much of the content within this book reflects what is best theory for practicle wind turbine engineering. Very indepth analysis of the aerodynamics and explains a lot of the concepts in great detail, where other books will gloss over. There are some things that readers should be aware of, first this book is only for people serious about wind turbine engineering. It is written at a level where some engineering knowledge is needed. I would recomend it for graduate students and proffesionals, but not for part time enthusiasts and hobyists.

A must in your Wind Energy Collection
For anyone interested in wind energy this book is a must.When first take a look at the book you get pretty scaredbutjust let timego by while you get acquainted with more topics dealing withwind energyand you'll love it. The only thing left to say is thanks to the authors.the more you think you know about something the moreyou realise thatyou're not even half way there....

Excellent and in depth
This book was written by people who spent their lives for something they loved. Their passion is evident from the in depth analysis and their personal contribution to many aspects of the presented theory.
This book is highly recommended to engineers and students, however it might not be very useful to people with limited engineering knowledge.
And a personal comment: If you are a Mechanical, of Aeronautical engineer fascinated by aerodynamics, David Sharp's section will surly challenge and intrigue you... ... Read more

Product Description
Now is the time to plan for the integration of significant quantities of distributed renewable energy into the electricity grid. Concerns about climate change, the adoption of state-level renewable portfolio standards and incentives, and accelerated cost reductions are driving steep growth in U.S. renewable energy technologies. As distributed PV and other renewable energy technologies mature, they can provide a significant share of our nation's electricity demand. To facilitate more extensive adoption of renewable distributed electric generation, the U.S. Department of Energy launched the Renewable Systems Interconnection (RSI) study during the spring of 2007. This book addresses the technical and analytical challenges that must be addressed to enable high penetration levels of distributed renewable energy technologies. This book consists of public domain documents which have been located, gathered, combined, reformatted, and enhanced with a subject index, selectively edited and bound to provide easy access. ... Read more

Product Description
***Recipient of the 2007 OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC TITLE AWARD from Choice***

Bringing together a wealth of information on energy use and energy efficiency in buildings at a level that can be easily digested and applied, Harvey offers a comprehensive, objective, and critical sourcebook on low-energy buildings. Topics covered include the thermal envelope, heating, cooling, heat pumps, HVAC systems, hot water, lighting, solar energy, appliances and office equipment, embodied energy, buildings as systems, and community-integrated energy systems (cogeneration, district heating, and district cooling). The book includes exemplary buildings and techniques from both North America and Europe and combines a broad, holistic perspective with technical detail in an accessible and insightful manner.

This book will appeal to universities, research institutes, professional architects, and energy consultants with an interest in low-energy buildings and district-energy systems, as well as students learning about energy use in buildings and sustainable architecture. ... Read more

Product Description

This is a comprehensive overview of energy storage concepts, methodologies and applications.

Students will find chapters exploring the underlying energy storage fundamentals under various conditions, such as organic fuels, phase transitions and heat capacity, in addition to reversible chemical reactions. Important energy storage types such as mechanical, hydrogen and electromagnetic energy storage are discussed in a pedagogical language and structure accessible to students and researchers alike. Valuable coverage of various types of batteries are included, such as metal hydride / "nickel", lithium, lead-acid and primary batteries, in addition to a variety of current applications.

Product Description
America is addicted to fossil fuels, and the environmental and geopolitical costs are mounting. A federal program—on the scale of the Manhattan Project or the Apollo Program—to stimulate innovation in energy policy seems essential. In Structuring an Energy Technology Revolution, Charles Weiss and William Bonvillian make the case for just such a program. Their proposal backs measures to stimulate private investment in new technology, including a cap-and-trade system or carbon tax, but augments these with a revamped energy innovation system. It would encourage a broad range of innovations that would give policymakers a variety of technological options over the long implementation period and at the huge scale required. Using new organizational features, the program would go beyond traditional research and development efforts to promote prototyping, demonstration, and deployment of technological innovations faster than could be accomplished by market forces alone.

Weiss and Bonvillian propose a new integrated policy framework for advancing energy technology and outline a four-step approach for encouraging energy innovations: assessment of how new technology will be launched, focusing on obstacles that may be encountered in the marketplace; development of technology-neutral policies and incentives, putting new technology pathways into practice to bridge the traditional "valley of death" between research and late-stage development; identification of gaps in the existing system of institutional support for energy innovation; and the establishment of private and public interventions to fill these gaps. This approach aims for a level playing field so that technologies can compete with one another on their merits.

Strong leadership and public support will be needed to resist the pressure of entrenched interests against putting new technology pathways into practice. This book will help start the process. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Innovating A Secure Energy Future
A lot of people are hoping that we can innovate our way into an energy and environmentally-secure future. The question is: How on earth are we going to do this? Experts on science, government and innovation policy, Charles Weiss and William Bonvillian explore the role of government in bringing on this energy innovation in their new book, Structuring An Energy Technology Revolution. (In the interest of full disclosure, I should say that I am acquainted with the second author. On the other hand, maybe I should also say that like thousands of other Americans I can't help but cheer when I see the value of my Exxon stock go up.)

I found Structuring An Energy Technology Revolution to be a great book. Weiss and Bonvillian, lay out a very plausible and detailed roadmap towards the goal of energy independence and environmental health. In their vision, government, industry and universities collaborate to foster new energy technologies. Think DARPA and the IT revolution on B vitamins, if not steroids. One of their most intriguing ideas (out of many) is that of technology neutrality. Here "no single technology has any special claim on support." (Structuring An Energy Technology Revolution, p.14).Instead, if I understand them correctly, technologies at different stages of development receive research or implementation support depending on their technoeconomic merit. The idea is to nurture an energy innovation environment that speeds up the creation and marketing of new energy technologies.Including the downstream costs or "externalities" of all energy products in the equation is a notable way of leveling the playing field.

Establishing an effective innovation system for energy technology is no easy task. It has to supply sufficient alternatives to the old-style use of fossil fuels, be hospitable to private investment, andnot be a boondoggle for bureaucrats or vested interests. This will take considerable political will. It is clear that this political discipline has to come from an informed public. To give us the information we need is the mission of this far-seeing work. Structuring An Energy Technology Revolution shows us how our already intertwined government, science and business communities could actually begin to solve these problems.Will they? Will we step up? I highly recommend this book. Beautifully written, the authors' broad grasp and effective presentation of these complexities gives us an almost panoramic view of the subject with the insider's command of details. If you're at all serious about following or shaping our economic, energy and environmental future, this book is necessary reading.
... Read more