Alternative Energy: Facts, Statistics, and Issues

Rising gas and utility prices, to say nothing of growing concerns about global warming, are fueling increased interest in alternative energy. Finding comprehensive information on this popular topic can be tough. Written for the layperson, this book is a one-stop source of information about alternative energy forms, in a world that needs it more than ever. Environmentally conscious individuals will find the most up-to-date information in this new annual summary. Important facts about companies and universities conducting research in alternative energy areas, government research subsidies, statistics on global use of alternative energy systems, and production of ethanol and hybrid fuels are included. Cost comparisons and a valuable appendix with sources for further study complete this encompassing energy reference.

This book features an overview of new techniques and advancements in the efficiency of various types of alternative energy sources such as:

· Biomass Energy

· Fusion Power

· Geothermal Energy

· Hybrid Systems

· Hydroelectric Power

· Hydrogen Fuel Cells

· Photo-voltaic Cells

· Solar Energy

· Wind

A current assessment of the state of conventional energy sources and fossil fuels, the depressed state of the nuclear power industry, and world energy costs are included in the introductory section.

Provides a one-stop resource for information about alternative energy and the context in which it operates.

Library Journal

A former reference librarian and the author of The Statistical Handbook on Technology, Berinstein here applies her statistical expertise to an analysis of alternative energy. The opening history of energy use includes coverage of conventional energy (coal, oil, natural gas, nuclear, and hydroelectric) and a time line dating from 1767 through 2000. The next section includes a balanced discussion of the economics of renewable energy, with separate chapters covering the major alternatives: solar photovoltaics, solar thermal, biomass, wind, ocean and tidal, fusion, geothermal, and hydrogen. Each chapter includes an overview as well as treatment of equipment needs, economics, incentives, environmental considerations, and developments in the area. Throughout, Berinstein reiterates that not all alternative energy is harmless to the environment. The work contains 85 tables (mainly from the U.S. Department of Energy) that cover measures such as emissions, consumption, fuel costs, operating costs, and production, to name just a few. The layout is attractive, with pictures, diagrams, and numerous "At a Glance" information boxes complementing the text. While the statistical information may be a bit overwhelming to the lay reader for whom this book is intended, having so much data in one volume is very handy. Of interest to academic and public library patrons; researchers in industry libraries will find the numbers useful. Eva Lautemann, Georgia Perimeter Coll., Clarkston Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.

PAULA BERINSTEIN is the author of several books, including Finding Statistics Online and Finding Images Online.