Alternative and renewable energy Books

Book SynopsisA celebrated international bestseller that exposes the ticking time-bomb underneath our new technological order. The resources race is on. Powering our digital lives and green technologies are some of the Earth’s most precious metals — but they are running out. And what will happen when they do? The green-tech revolution will reduce our reliance on nuclear power, coal, and oil, but by breaking free of fossil fuels, we are setting ourselves up for a new dependence — on rare metals like cobalt, gold, and palladium. These are essential to electric vehicles, wind turbines, and solar panels, as well as our smartphones, computers, tablets, and other technologies. But we know very little about how rare metals are mined and traded, or their environmental, economic, and geopolitical costs — until now.Trade Review‘Recognising that the latest technologies might not be as green as we like to think is a good place to start planning for a better world.’ -- John Arlidge * The Sunday Times *‘[T]he journalist and filmmaker warns against the optimistic belief that technology is the solution … At a time when many claim to be “citizens of the world” or retreat into naive or hypocritical protectionism, Pitron’s book is an attempt to open people’s eyes to the consequences of their societal choices and lifestyles.’ * Green European Journal *‘Both novel and eye opening … The Rare Metals War is worth the read.’ -- Art Flynn * Irish Examiner *‘French Writer and analyst Guillaume Pitron warns about growing reliance on rare-earth metal — which are necessary to build high-tech products … He shines a light on “the untold story” of the energy and digital transitions.’ * European Scientist *‘An expert account of a poorly understood but critical element in our economy.’ * Kirkus Reviews *‘[E]xposes the dirty underpinnings of clean technologies in a debut that raises valid questions about energy extraction.’ * Publishers Weekly *‘The Rare Metals War is Guillaume Pitron’s urgent exposé of the race for resources and an examination of its environmental and human impacts.’ -- Dan Shaw * Happy Magazine *

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Book SynopsisThe twenty-first century will be dominated by the nations that lead the race in clean-tech development, deployment, and wealth creation. This title outlines the advanced technology, policy, and financial tools the US can wield to compete and win on this fast-changing, competitive global battlefield.Trade Review"Five years ago, Pernick and Wilder predicted a clean-energy revolution. Today, that revolution is already underway-but without an aggressive energy strategy, America's leadership will falter. The action plan in this book is just what the country needs, and Pernick and Wilder are expert guides once again." -- John Podesta, Chair and Counselor, Center for American Progress "Pernick and Wilder powerfully articulate the trends and developments reshaping the clean-tech landscape and provide both compelling and comprehensive solutions. They intelligently lay out what's needed next, offering controversial yet reconcilable steps to enable profound progress in the U.S." -- John Hofmeister, Founder and CEO, Citizens for Affordable Energy, Former President, Shell Oil Company "Bursting with data, case studies, and market insights, Clean Tech Nation is must reading for business leaders, investors, policymakers, scholars, environmental advocates, and anyone else who cares about America's energy and environmental future." -- Dan Esty, Hillhouse Professor of Environmental Law and Policy, Yale University, Author of Green to Gold "Clean Tech Nation deftly illustrates how well placed and naturally advantaged the United States is in the Clean Tech race and offers a coherent and realistic seven point action plan designed to secure that lasting advantage for the benefit of the American people." -- David Crane, President and CEO of NRG Energy "If the U.S. wants to maintain its status as the world's leading economy it must put a stake in the ground for the clean tech sector. Here, the authors describe how the U.S. can seize this opportunity to lead, create jobs, and be an innovation engine." -- Bill Ritter, Former Governor, Colorado, Director, Center for the New Energy Economy "Too many are giving up on the U.S.'s critical role in building a clean-tech future. Against this backdrop, Clean Tech Nation makes an effective case for U.S. leadership and a path to get there." -- Mark Vachon, Vice President of GE, Ecomagination "A new sustainable economy is unfolding rapidly around the world, led by forward-looking companies, governments, and individuals. Here, Pernick and Wilder offer a clear, compelling, and inspiring path for the U.S. to seize the reins of this once-in-a-generation business opportunity." -- L. Hunter Lovins, President of Natural Capitalism Solutions, Coauthor of Climate Capitalism "This book conveys an insightful insider's view of renewable energy and clean-tech markets, industry, finance, and policy in a way that will leave the reader with a deeper understanding of how this revolution happened and where it must go next." -- Michael T. Eckhart, Managing Director, Global Head of Environmental Finance for Citi Corporate and Investment Banking "Ron Pernick and Clint Wilder have created a compelling vision for a Clean Tech Nation and a roadmap for creating it, even as they surprise and delight readers with a rich account of progress already achieved. I salute their unique combination of technical savvy, practical sense, and imperishable enthusiasm." -- Ralph Cavanagh, Energy Program Co-Director for National Resources Defense Council "Clean tech is growing up. In Clean Tech Nation, Pernick and Wilder take an important look at the industry's challenging adolescent years and what it will take, in terms of both public and private action, to reach a successful adulthood - financially and societally." -- Dan Reicher, Executive Director, Steyer-Taylor Center for Energy Policy and Finance, Stanford University, Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Energy "Pernick and Wilder present both practical and thought-provoking ideas for financing the clean-tech sector. Their book offers a compelling call-to-action, for investors, policymakers, and others, to fuel America's energy and economic future." -- Puon Penn, Senior Vice President, Head of Global CleanTech Markets, Wells Fargo "An informative, optimistic look at how a partnership between private capital and government can unleash America's innovative capabilities." -- Kirkus Reviews "Strong on solid, easy to digest data and doesn't promote a political agenda...[A]n excellent resource for state and local planning commissions and a model for developing a clean national energy policy." -- Booklist "Clean Tech Nation dares to imagine a country in which bipartisanship reigns, green energy is our nation's greatest national resource, and our competitive edge in the global economy is restored." -- President Bill Clinton "Clean Tech Nation makes a compelling case not only for why the U.S. needs to focus on smart policies to drive clean-tech leadership, but how. The authors' action plan can help unleash America's innovative energy and ensure that we don't cede this trillion-dollar opportunity to other nations." -- Rick Needham, Director, Energy & Sustainability, Google

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Book SynopsisThe wind power development policy community faces a conundrum. On the one hand, as the most commercially viable form of utility-scale renewable energy, the wind power industry has experienced in excess of ten-fold growth in total installed capacity over the past decade. On the other hand, installed wind power capacity still accounts for less than 2% of global electricity-generation capacity, despite the prevalence of studies indicating that, in certain situations, wind power can be a cheaper form of electricity than most fossil fuel alternatives. Accordingly, the most puzzling aspect of wind power development policy can be summed up in the following manner: given the global imperative to facilitate an expedient transition away from CO2-intensive energy technologies and the commercial viability of wind power, what is stopping the wind power industry from capturing higher market shares around the world?In Wind Power Politics and Policy, Scott Valentine examines this question from two angles. First, it presents an analysis of social, technical, economic and political (STEP) barriers which research shows tends to stymie wind power development. Case studies which examine phlegmatic wind power development in Japan, Taiwan, Australia and Canada are presented in order to demonstrate to the reader how these barriers manifest themselves in practice. Second, the book presents an analysis of STEP catalysts which have been linked to successful growth of wind power capacity in select nations. Four more case studies that examine the successful development of wind power in Denmark, Germany, the USA and China are put forth as practical examples of how supportive factors conflate to produce conditions that are conducive to growth of wind power markets. By examining its impediments and catalysts, the book will provide policymakers with insight into the types of factors that must be effectively managed in order to maximize wind power development.Trade ReviewIf you must choose only one book to help understand the dynamics and potential of wind power in the contemporary energy mix, this is it. Valentine provides a succinct overview of the technologies and issues facing the sector and detailed cases studies of countries such as Germany, Denmark Canada, Japan, China and the United States which show the factors and variables which have resulted in some of these countries being world leaders in wind power and others laggards. This is a first class work, engaging and readable yet detailed and sophisticated in its approach and findings * Professor Michael Howlett, Simon Fraser University, Author of Designing Public Policy: Principles and Instruments *Climate change can no longer be denied. Humanity has to act quickly and decisively to deal with it and mitigate its impact. We have to give up our addiction to fossil fuel and find alternative power sources. Surprisingly, little attention has been paid to wind power as a viable alternative. Scott Valentine's book therefore could not be more timely and more relevant for a planet in peril. He explains lucidly how wind power can give us new hope * Professor Kishore Mahbubani, National University of Singapore, former President of the UN Security Council, Author of The Great Convergence: Asia, the West, and the Logic of One World *As the climate change crisis makes clear, the transition to clean energy is the challenge of this century. An important component of a renewal energy mix will be wind power. But there is nothing certain about this development. This book helps us sort out the complex issues associated with this important source of renewable energy. I highly recommend it * Professor Frank Fischer, Professor, Rutgers University, Author of Reframing Public Policy: Discursive Politics and Deliberative Practices *The book describes a dilemma wrapped in a paradox. The paradox is that the world needs to decarbonize its electricity sector, yet clean and competitive wind power is struggling. That creates the dilemma: will the world embrace the opportunity to generate carbon-free electricity and address the changing climate or will it continue on its unsustainable path forward? Scott Valentine's book explains the electricity resource choices made by six influential nations. The history of wind power development in these nations is explained through a Political SET framework which provides comprehensive insight into forces that either enable or bar wind power development. This book provides a clear idea of what must be managed in order for wind power development to meet its potential in a timely manner * Professor Marilyn Brown, Georgia Institute of Technology, Author of Climate Change and Global Energy Security: Technology and Policy Options, 2007 Nobel Laureate *Table of ContentsTable of Contents ; CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION: THE GLOBAL IMPERATIVE ; 1.1 THE GLOBAL IMPERATIVE ; 1. 2 ENERGY AND THE GLOBAL IMPERATIVE ; 1. 3 ELECTRICITY AND THE GLOBAL IMPERATIVE ; 1.3.1 Electricity Generation Technologies ; 1.3.2 The Dynamics of Electricity Prices ; 1.4 ENERGY MARKET CHANGE & INDUSTRIALIZED NATIONS ; 1.4.1 Convergence and Alternative Energy ; 1.4.2 The Need for Speed ; 1.5 ENERGY MARKET CHANGE & DEVELOPING NATIONS ; 1.5.1 Economic Considerations ; 1.5.2 Economic Security Considerations ; 1.5.3 Economic Empowerment ; 1.5.4 Social Considerations ; 1.5.5 The Need for Speed ; 1.6 WHEN FORCES FOR SPEED MEET THE NEED FOR SPEED ; 1.7 THE DICHOTOMY OF ALTERNATIVE ENERGY ; 1.8 OBJECTIVES AND OUTLINE OF THIS BOOK ; CHAPTER 2: UNDERSTANDING WIND POWER SYSTEMS ; 2.1 THE IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING WIND POWER SYSTEMS ; 2.2 FEATURES OF WIND POWER SYSTEMS ; 2.2.1 Main Components of a Wind System ; 2.2.2 Innovation and Cost ; 2.2.3 Delivering Wind Power to the Grid ; 2.3 WIND POWER MANAGEMENT CHALLENGES ; 2.3.1 The Challenge of Matching Supply and Demand ; 2.3.2 Stochastic flows ; 2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS AND REALITIES ; 2.5 IMPAIRMENT OF EXISTING COMMUNITY ENDOWMENTS ; 2.5.1 Separating Perception from Fact ; 2.5.2 Perceptions Improve ; 2.5.3 Aesthetic Concerns Overshadow All Others ; 2.5.4 Beyond NIMBY Opposition ; 2.5.5 Overall Lessons in Regard to Community Opposition ; 2.5.6 Government Agency Opposition ; 2.6 IMPAIRMENT OF EXISTING ECOSYSTEMS ; 2.6.1 Bird Mortality ; 2.6.2 The Challenge of Estimating Bird Mortality ; 2.6.3 Degradation of Animal Habitat ; 2.6.4 Offshore Wind Farms and Ecological Concerns ; 2.6.5 The Importance of Environmental Impact Assessments ; 2.6.6 Aesthetics ; 2.7 CONCLUSION ; CHAPTER 3: THE POLICY SET MODEL ; 3.1 THE VALUE OF A COMMON ANALYTICAL FRAMEWORK ; 3.2 THE SEAMLESS WEB ; 3.3 COMPLEX ADAPTIVE MARKET THEORY IN WIND POWER MARKET ANALYSIS ; 3.4 STEP ANALYSIS ; 3.5 THE POLITICAL SET MODEL ; 3.6 THE POLITICAL SET MODEL AND THE CASE STUDIES ; 3.7 TYING THEORY TO THE POLITICAL SET MODEL ; Chapter 4: Wind Power in Denmark ; 4.1 INTRODUCTION ; 4.2 AN OVERVIEW OF ELECTRICITY GENERATION IN DENMARK ; 4.3 HISTORY OF WIND POWER DEVELOPMENT IN DENMARK ; 4.4 UNDERSTANDING THE GENERAL FORCES FOR CHANGE ; 4.4.1 Socio-Cultural Landscape ; 4.4.2 Economic landscape ; 4.4.3 Technological landscape ; 4.5 INFLUENCES ON GOVERNMENT POLICY ; 4.5.1 Socio-Cultural a Political ; 4.5.2 Economic a Political ; 4.5.3 Technological a Political ; 4.6 POLITICAL INFLUENCES ON POLICY ; 4.6.1 National political structure ; 4.6.2 Governing party ideology ; 4.6.3 Fiscal health ; 4.6.4 Policy regime ; 4.7 THE CULMINATION OF INFLUENCES ; 4.8 WHAT TO EXPECT GOING FORWARD ; Chapter 5: Wind Power in Germany ; 5.1 INTRODUCTION ; 5.2 AN OVERVIEW OF ELECTRICITY GENERATION IN GERMANY ; 5.3 HISTORY OF WIND POWER DEVELOPMENT IN GERMANY ; 5.4 UNDERSTANDING THE GENERAL FORCES FOR CHANGE ; 5.4.1 Socio-Cultural Landscape ; 5.4.2 Economic landscape ; 5.4.3 Technological landscape ; 5.5 INFLUENCES ON GOVERNMENT POLICY ; 5.5.1 Socio-Cultural a Political ; 5.5.2 Economic a Political ; 5.5.3 Technological a Political ; 5.6 POLITICAL INFLUENCES ON POLICY ; 5.6.1 National political structure ; 5.6.2 Governing party ideology ; 5.6.3 Fiscal health ; 5.6.4 Policy regime ; 5.7 THE CULMINATION OF INFLUENCES ; 5.8 WHAT TO EXPECT GOING FORWARD ; Chapter 6: Wind Power in China ; 6.1 INTRODUCTION ; 6.2 AN OVERVIEW OF ELECTRICITY GENERATION IN CHINA ; 6.3 HISTORY OF WIND POWER DEVELOPMENT IN CHINA ; 6.4 UNDERSTANDING THE GENERAL FORCES FOR CHANGE ; 6.4.1 Socio-Cultural Landscape ; 6.4.2 Economic landscape ; 6.4.3 Technological landscape ; 6.5 INFLUENCES ON GOVERNMENT POLICY ; 6.5.1 Socio-Cultural a Political ; 6.5.2 Economic a Political ; 6.5.3 Technological a Political ; 6.6 POLITICAL INFLUENCES ON POLICY ; 6.6.1 National political structure ; 6.6.2 Governing party ideology ; 6.6.3 Fiscal health ; 6.6.4 Policy regime ; 6.7 THE CULMINATION OF INFLUENCES ; 6.8 WHAT TO EXPECT GOING FORWARD ; Chapter 7: Wind Power in the United States ; 7.1 INTRODUCTION ; 7.2 AN OVERVIEW OF ELECTRICITY GENERATION IN THE USA ; 7.3 HISTORY OF WIND POWER DEVELOPMENT IN THE USA ; 7.4 UNDERSTANDING THE GENERAL FORCES FOR CHANGE ; 7.4.1 Socio-Cultural Landscape ; 7.4.2 Economic landscape ; 7.4.3 Technological landscape ; 7.5 INFLUENCES ON GOVERNMENT POLICY ; 7.5.1 Socio-Cultural a Political ; 7.5.2 Economic a Political ; 7.5.3 Technological a Political ; 7.6 POLITICAL INFLUENCES ON POLICY ; 7.6.1 National political structure ; 7.6.2 Governing party ideology ; 7.6.3 Fiscal health ; 7.6.4 Policy regime ; 7.7 THE CULMINATION OF INFLUENCES ; 7.7.1 Political a Socio-cultural ; 7.7.2 Political a Economic ; 7.7.3 Political a Technological ; 7.8 WHAT TO EXPECT GOING FORWARD ; Chapter 8: Wind Power in Canada ; 8.1 INTRODUCTION ; 8.2 AN OVERVIEW OF ELECTRICITY GENERATION IN CANADA ; 8.3 HISTORY OF WIND POWER DEVELOPMENT IN CANADA ; 8.4 UNDERSTANDING THE GENERAL FORCES FOR CHANGE ; 8.4.1 Socio-Cultural Landscape ; 8.4.2 Economic landscape ; 8.4.3 Technological landscape ; 8.5 INFLUENCES ON GOVERNMENT POLICY ; 8.5.1 Socio-Cultural a Political ; 8.5.2 Economic a Political ; 8.5.3 Technological a Political ; 8.6 POLITICAL INFLUENCES ON POLICY ; 8.6.1 National political structure ; 8.6.2 Governing party ideology ; 8.6.3 Fiscal health ; 8.6.4 Policy regime ; 8.7 THE CULMINATION OF INFLUENCES ; 8.7.1 Political a Socio-cultural ; 8.7.2 Political a Economic ; 8.7.3 Political a Technological ; 8.8 WHAT TO EXPECT GOING FORWARD ; Chapter 9: Wind Power in Japan ; 9.1 INTRODUCTION ; 9.2 AN OVERVIEW OF ELECTRICITY GENERATION IN JAPAN ; 9.3 HISTORY OF WIND POWER DEVELOPMENT IN JAPAN ; 9.4 UNDERSTANDING THE GENERAL FORCES FOR CHANGE ; 9.4.1 Socio-Cultural Landscape ; 9.4.2 Economic landscape ; 9.4.3 Technological landscape ; 9.5 INFLUENCES ON GOVERNMENT POLICY ; 9.5.1 Socio-Cultural a Political ; 9.5.2 Economic a Political ; 9.5.3 Technological a Political ; 9.6 POLITICAL INFLUENCES ON POLICY ; 9.6.1 National political structure ; 9.6.2 Governing party ideology ; 9.6.3 Fiscal health ; 9.6.4 Policy regime ; 9.7 THE CULMINATION OF INFLUENCES ; 9.7.1 Political a Socio-cultural ; 9.7.2 Political a Economic ; 9.7.3 Political a Technological ; 9.8 WHAT TO EXPECT GOING FORWARD ; Chapter 10: Strategic Control over Wind Power Development Policy ; 10.1 INTRODUCTION ; 10.2 INFLUENTIAL SOCIAL FACTORS ; 10.3 INFLUENTIAL TECHNOLOGICAL FACTORS ; 10.4 INFLUENTIAL ECONOMIC FACTORS ; 10.5 INFLUENTIAL POLITICAL FACTORS ; 10.6 CONCLUDING THOUGHTS ; Chapter 11: Applied Policymaking ; 11.1 POLICY FORMULATION ; 11.2 UNDERSTANDING SYSTEM DYNAMICS ; 11.2.1 Economics is Still King ; 11.2.2 Chain Reactions Can Be Partially Managed ; 11.2.3 Favorable Conditions Still Need to Be Managed ; 11.2.4 First Mover Advantages Exist ; 11.2.4 Public Opposition Trumps Economic Impediments at High Levels of Installed Capacity ; 11.3 POLICY IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING ESSENTIALS ; 11.3.1 Malleability ; 11.3.2 Transparency and Broad Participation ; 11.3.3 Strategic Balance ; 11.3.4 Evolutionary Mindset ; 11.4 AVENUES OF FURTHER RESEARCH AND CONCLUSION

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Book SynopsisThe economic and political aspects of energy subsidies, viewed both theoretically and empirically, with a focus on fossil fuel subsidies in developing nations.Government subsidies to energy are widespread and represent a heavy burden on public budgets in many countries. Both producers and consumers may be subsidized; the most common subsidies are for motor fuel consumption and electricity production and consumption. The subsidies to consumers often prove particularly harmful because they result in increased energy consumption, increased carbon emissions, and distortionary effects on consumer behavior. This book fills a void in the literature by providing a first, broad and diverse, analysis of several aspects of the economic and political economy aspects of government energy subsidies. The contributors take both theoretical and empirical approaches, with most of the focus on subsidies to fuel and electricity in non-OECD countries.The chapters cover such topics as energ

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive, coherent strategy for modernizing America's electricity infrastructure while ensuring affordable, reliable, secure, and environmentally sustainable electricity services.America's aging electricity infrastructure is deteriorating rapidly even as the need for highly reliable electric service—driven by the explosion of digital technology—continues to rise. Largely missing from national discussions, however, is a coherent, comprehensive national strategy for modernizing this critical infrastructure. Energy expert Mason Willrich presents just such a strategy in this book, connecting the dots across electric utilities, independent suppliers, government bureaucracies, political jurisdictions, and academic disciplines. He explains the need for a coherent approach, offers a framework for analyzing policy options, and proposes a step-by-step strategy for modernizing electrical infrastructure, end-to-end, in a way that ensures the delivery of affordable, rel

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Book SynopsisKatherine Wolff is a Nonresident Scholar with the Economics and Energy Program at the Middle East Institute, USA. Karen E. Young is Senior Research Scholar at Columbia University in the Center on Global Energy Policy and also a Non-Resident Senior Fellow and Founding Director of the Program on Economics and Energy at the Middle East Institute, USA.Table of ContentsList of figures List of tables Introduction, Karen E. Young, Senior Research Scholar at the Columbia University Center on Global Energy Policy PART ONE: FINANCING, REGULATION, AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR THE ENERGY TRANSITION 1 .A look back at 2020: GCC COVID-19 response, reforms, energy transition concerns and microcompetitiveness, Yesar Al-Maleki, Gulf Analyst at Middle East Economic Survey (MEES) 2. The future of Gulf NOC–IOC partnerships, Colby Connelly, Senior Research Analyst at Energy Intelligence 3. Mechanisms to finance climate investments in the Middle East and North Africa, Lama Kiyasseh, Risk Management Officer at the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency 4. Political priorities and economic realities: Financing the renewable energy transition in Saudi Arabia and Oman, Piotr G. S. Schulkes, Former Non-Resident Scholar at the Middle East Institute 5. The political dimensions of energy transition in MENA: A changing landscape at the national, regional and global levels, Younes Abouyoub, Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Political Science at the University of New England PART TWO: NEW ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES AND THEIR DEVELOPMENT IN THE MIDDLE EAST 6. The next big thing in MENA power – grids and energy storage, Jessica Obeid, Founding Partner at New Energy Consult 7. Green hydrogen production in North Africa: Challenges and opportunities, Michaël Tanchum, Professor at Universidad de Navarra PART THREE: CASE STUDIES IN THE ENERGY TRANSITION 8. Qatar’s LNG industry in the age of hydrocarbon markets: Instability and energy transition, Nikolay Kozhanov, Research Associate Professor at Qatar University 9. Renewable energy diplomacy: The Gulf States in the Caucasus and Central Asia, Li-Chen Sim, Assistant Professor at Khalifa University Conclusion, Karen E. Young, Senior Research Scholar at the Columbia University Center on Global Energy Policy

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Book SynopsisRenewable Energy from Wind and Solar Power: Law and Regulation is concerned with the law and regulation of electricity generation in the case of the two most popular sources of energy derived from renewable resources. It covers up-to-date national policy and guidance relevant to electricity generation collected from renewable resources.Trade Review"Of particular use to practitioners is the case study section in which Webster has identified the critical issues upon which the various cases turned. This will doubtless be of assistance to those promoting and resisting applications." Dr Ashley Bowes - Editor of the Journal of Planning and Environmental LawTable of Contents1 INTRODUCTION Scope of introduction Climate change The UK’s record on climate change The UK’s sources of energy Brief statistical overview (fossil fuels and renewables) Sites generating renewable electricity at the end of December 2019 European energy policy UK renewables’ policies Availability of financial assistance for the generation and export of renewable energy to the grid Comment – should the planning balance change when it comes to renewable energy applications? 2 OVERVIEW OF THE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK AFFECTING WIND AND SOLAR ENERGY DEVELOPMENTS Onshore energy Permitted development Planning Act 2008 Electricity Act 1989: section 36 consents for onshore and offshore electricity generation Varying section 36 consents Environmental standards European sites Environmental assessment Exemption from consent requirement Deemed planning permission FEPA licence Overhead electricity lines Deemed planning permission for overhead lines Public inquiries where there are objections to section 36 and section 37 applications Ancillary or supporting facilities Compulsory purchase powers Position in Wales Key elements of planning law Development Planning permission National Planning Policy Framework in England Sustainable development Plan-making: key principles Decision-making: key principles Planning conditions and obligations The rural economy Green Belt land Proposals affecting Green Belt land Climate change Conserving the natural environment Conserving the historic environment UK Solar PV Strategy (Parts 1 and 2) 3 NATIONALLY SIGNIFICANT INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS Introduction Policy Statements The statutory process (i.e. that relevant to wind and solar energy) Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project regime in Wales 4 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT Introduction Purpose of Environmental Impact Assessment Overview of Environmental Impact Assessment When is an Environmental Impact Assessment required? Procedure for deciding whether a Schedule 2 project is likely to have significant effects on the environment Obtaining a screening opinion from the local planning authority Treatment of multiple applications Can an Environmental Statement be submitted without a screening opinion? What if a planning application for a Schedule 2 development is not accompanied by an Environmental Statement? Called-in applications where there is no Environmental Statement Procedure for planning appeals Determining planning applications that have been subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment 5 HABITATS AND SPECIES REGULATIONS 2017 Introduction Overview of the Habitats Regulations 2017 6 PLANNING GUIDANCE RELEVANT TO WIND AND SOLAR ENERGY DEVELOPMENTS Introduction Regulatory framework underlying decision-making National Planning Practice Guidance – Guidance on climate change National Planning Practice Guidance – Guidance on renewable and low carbon energy Electricity development consents Decommissioning offshore renewable energy installations Wayleaves and compulsory purchase orders 7 WIND FARMS Introduction Written Ministerial Statement applying to proposed onshore wind energy development Report of the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee published on 22 August 2019 Repowering existing onshore wind turbines How do offshore and onshore wind farms work? How efficient is wind power? How much of the UK’s electricity comes from wind power? Advantages of offshore wind Disadvantages of offshore wind (see also onshore wind farms where there is some overlap) Seven of the ten largest offshore wind farms in the world are in UK waters Advantages of onshore wind Disadvantages of onshore wind Checklist of requirements for wind energy projects Cost and overheads of wind turbines Repowering/decommissioning wind farms 8 CASE STUDIES INVOLVING WIND POWER PROJECTS I Permission Granted for Four Wind Turbines near to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty II Wind Farm Close to Listed Buildings III Wind Turbine in Green Belt IV Wind Turbines and Community Benefits as Material Considerations V Policies Requiring Exceptional Circumstances in the Context of a Wind Farm Development involving Seven Wind Turbines on Land in Powys VI Varying Conditions whose Effect was to Change the Description of the Development (Concerning Two Wind Turbines) VII Community Benefits as Material Considerations – Appeal Against a Decision to Uphold the Quashing of a Grant of Planning Permission for a Wind Turbine VIII Permission for Onshore Substation to Support Major Offshore Wind Farm IX Approval of Wind Farm Despite the Turbines Exceeding Local Policy Height Restrictions X Proposal for Eight Wind Turbines Fails on Adverse Landscape and Visual Impacts XI Proposal for Five 125m High Wind Turbines Allowed on Orkney XII Lifetime of Wind Farm Extended on Basis that the Proposal Involved Repowering and was not a Fresh Application XIII Approval Given to 14-Turbine Wind Farm Despite Concerns about 19km Access Track XIV Ten-Turbine Wind Farm Approved despite Landscape Objections XV Single Wind Turbine on Green Belt close to Heathrow Rejected XVI Five Wind Turbines Refused on Significant Environmental Grounds XVII Single Turbine Allowed where Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Landscape and Visual Impacts Found to be Minor (Involving Heritage Issues and Local Planning Authority’s Declaration of Climate Emergency) XVIII Benefits Associated with the Generation of Renewable Energy and Climate Change Considerations still Insufficient to Outweigh Adverse Impacts on Landscape and Visual Effects Could Not Satisfactorily be Mitigated XIX Renewable Energy Benefits still Insufficient to Outweigh Adverse Landscape Impacts XX Permission Refused for a Development Consent Order Extending the Thanet Offshore Wind Farm on the Ground of Navigational Risks XXI Development Consent Granted for 158 Wind Turbines off the Norfolk Coast (Decision recently quashed and subject to re-determination) XXII Development Consent Granted in Principle for 231-Turbine Hornsea Project Three Offshore Wind Farm in the North Sea, although a Final Decision was Delayed to Allow for Final Approval of Measures to Cover Adverse Impacts to the Kittiwake Population and Coastal Special Protection Area XXIII Unacceptable Landscape and Visual Impacts Preclude 30-Turbine Wind Farm in an Area of Great Natural Beauty in Dumfries and Galloway XXIV Single Wind Turbine Allowed in Close Proximity to Existing Wind Farm 9 SOLAR ENERGY Photovoltaic system Solar cells Types of photovoltaic systems Performance Photovoltaic mounting Cabling Solar tracker Battery Selling solar electricity back to the grid (domestic installations) How much electricity do solar panels produce and how many panels might one need for a dwelling? How much do residential solar panels cost? Commercial-scale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic – bullet points Ministerial Statements affecting solar energy (as material considerations) 10 CASE STUDIES INVOLVING SOLAR POWER DEVELOPMENT I Whether the Effect that Development might have on Solar Panels on Neighbouring Residential Property was a Material Planning Consideration II Large Solar Farm in Green Belt Rejected on Landscape Grounds by Secretary of State on Recovered Appeal – Appeal Dismissed III 10MW Solar Farm Rejected because of Harm to Landscape – Appeal Refused IV Solar Farm Rejected on Landscape and Heritage Grounds – Appeals Refused V Domestic Solar Energy Proposal on Land Just Outside a National Park Rejected on the Basis of Green Belt Harm – Appeal Dismissed VI Solar Panels Not Allowed on Grade II Listed Church – Appeal Partly Allowed VII Free-standing Solar Panels Not Allowed in Grounds of Country House in National Park – Appeal Dismissed VIII Free-standing Solar Panels for Domestic Use Not Allowed in Green Belt and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – Appeal Dismissed IX 13.6GWh Solar Farm on 16 Hectare Site Rejected because of Adverse Visual and Heritage Impacts – Appeal Dismissed

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Book SynopsisA guide to choosing and using solar electricity systems from the man who launched a thousand rooftop solar arrays . . . the essential go-to manual (John D. Ivanko and Lisa Kivirist, coauthors of ECOpreneuring). As we look for safer, more economical, and more sustainable ways to meet our needs for electricityand as more and more electric cars hit the roadsolar has become an increasingly popular option. With Solar Electricity Basics, renewable energy expert Dan Chiras offers a concise and up-to-date guide covering all the essentials. It explores: How to size, cost, and choose the right system, including off-grid vs. grid-tied vs. grid-tied with battery backup Where to mount a system for maximum performance What type of modules and inverters to buy How to install and maintain batteries Cost vs. benefit for solar electric systems How to connect to the grid, and what type of net metering your areTable of ContentsChapter 1: An Introduction to Solar Electricity Chapter 2: Understanding the Sun and Solar Energy— Things You Need to Know to Size and Mount a Solar Array Chapter 3: Understanding Solar Electricity— Types of Modules, How They Are Rated, and Advances in Solar Technology Chapter 4: Does Solar Electricity Make Sense? Sizing a System and Evaluating Its Cost and Economic Benefits Chapter 5: Solar Electric Systems: What Are Your Options? Chapter 6: Understanding Inverters Chapter 7: Batteries, Charge Controllers, and Gen-Sets Chapter 8: Mounting a PV Array for Maximum Output Chapter 9: Final Considerations: Permits, Covenants, Utility Interconnection, and Buying a System Index About the AuthorA Note about the Publisher

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Book SynopsisThe climate problem is getting worse, but the solutions are getting better. So far, no technology has done more to improve the solutions available to address climate change than solar photovoltaics (PV). This revised edition describes an array of driving forces leading us toward a solar-centric energy system, one where solar power lies at the core rather than at the edge.Now in its second edition the book focuses on the future of solar, taking into account important changes since it was first published. It includes discussions on further growth and cost reductions, industrial policy, and grid integration of high solar. It has been fully revised to include the most recent data available, and includes two new chapters on India, the most important solar market in the Global South, and Australia, the fastest growing market for rooftop solar. The book concludes with a new chapter on a solar-centric economy. The costs of solar PV modules have reduced significantly since they were first commercialized and, in sunny places, are now cheaper than any other form of electricity. Drawing on developments in the US, Japan, Germany, Australia, India, and China, the book analyses the evolution and success of PV and asks how it can serve as a model for other low-carbon technologies, which require urgent innovation to address climate change.It will be of great interest to students and scholars of energy technology and innovation, climate change and energy analysis and policy, as well as practitioners and policymakers working in the energy industries

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Book SynopsisTrade Review‘The world economy must transform fundamentally in the next three decades if we are to avoid the most dangerous impacts of climate change; we must go to net zero emissions. Radical change in the energy systems will be at the core. This book examines what is involved in, and required, for such unprecedented transformation. It brings great wisdom, knowledge, judgement and analytical strength to a complicated but vital problem. It is based on experience at the highest levels in government, business and finance. It marshals an understanding of systems, policies and markets, with all their imperfections and power, in a very effective and illuminating way. This is a deep, thoughtful and important book; an outstanding contribution.' -- Lord Nicholas Stern, London School of Economics, UK‘Reaching net zero requires transformational change, fast. Steven Fries, who has fought on the front line of climate and energy issues for decades, argues for a “heterodox policy mix”, with governments stepping up their industrial policy. This book offers valuable insight into the changes necessary to get to net zero.’ -- Cameron Hepburn, University of Oxford, UKTable of ContentsContents: Preface Introduction to Transforming Energy Systems PART I MODERNITY, THE CLIMATE AND NET ZERO EMISSIONS 1. Energy capture and modernity 2. Useful energy and the climate 3. Net zero emissions and low-carbon alternatives PART II ADVANCING AND GUIDING LOW-CARBON ALTERNATIVES 4. Supporting innovation and early deployment of low-carbon alternatives 5. Calibrating emissions pricing 6. Adapting energy-market designs and infrastructures 7. Making better use of energy and materials PART III ENERGY-REFORM INTERESTS AND STRATEGIES 8. Interests in low-carbon technologies and renewable resources 9. Accelerating change References Index

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Book SynopsisThe first single-authored exploration of the world of public banks. Focusing in on six worldwide case studies, the author reveals that public banks have the resources needed to tackle decarbonisation, definancialisation, and democratisation. These institutions are capable of catalysing the future of financing sustainable and stable development.Trade Review'The Great Financial Crisis of 2007–2009 and the near financial meltdown at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic have made it vividly clear that our current financial system is woefully inadequate to address the massive problems we face. Thomas Marois has written a masterful book that convincingly argues that a major expansion in the role of public banks can provide long term, well-directed finance to speak to these major challenges. This is the definitive work on public banking that will be of enormous interest to practitioners, policy makers, economists, and others who are tired of just complaining about the failures of finance and who actually want to do something about it.' Gerald Epstein, Professor and Co-Director PERI, University of Massachusetts, Amherst'Writing on public banks has tended to fall into one of two camps - they are either seen as neo-Keynesian saviors capable of stabilizing capitalism in an increasingly speculative world, or as inefficient and nepotistic institutions that crowd out private finance. Thomas Marois' book offers a refreshingly new and groundbreaking perspective that envisions public banks as dynamic institutions shaped by their social, economic, and political context. The book asks how public banks can be made more democratic and accountable to those they are intended to serve, showcasing positive and negative examples. It is essential reading for those interested in how we can finance a more progressive, green, and just public future.' David A. McDonald, Queen's University, Canada'The resurgence of public banking has potential to provide much-needed finance to address the challenges of pandemics, climate change, and global economic stagnation - but staying within a neoliberal financialized paradigm will not achieve this. Here's a timely and important study with a dynamic approach that recognizes public banks as both powerful and contested, and provides case studies and ideas for how public banks can truly serve the public interest.' Jayati Ghosh, Professor of Economics, University of Massachusetts, Amherst'The most detailed treatment of public banks in the political economy literature. An engaging narrative traverses the histories and track records of public banks across six different country case studies from the global north and south. This critical intervention forces us to rethink some of the key challenges of our age: financialization, negative economic externalities, emergencies (including COVID-19), the democratization of finance and society, and - most importantly - a green and just transition. Marois has given us an indispensable book for our times.' Alfredo Saad-Filho, King's College London'In recent years, there has been ever increasing energy and activism in many parts of the world around public banking, both as an alternative to the increased concentration and power of large financial corporations and as a way to address the many pressing social and ecological challenges our societies now face. Providing a deep and nuanced analysis of public banks as contested, dynamic, and critical institutions, Thomas Marois' new book is a masterful contribution to these efforts and incredibly timely given the current economic crisis gripping much of the world and the looming existential threat of climate change.' Thomas M. Hanna, Research Director at The Democracy Collaborative, and author of Our Common Wealth: The Return of Public Ownership in the United States'Against the background of stratospheric inequality and continuing ecological devastation, not to mention the enormous setback to human progress represented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomas Marois has produced a timely and hugely important contribution that explains how public banks can play a central role in steering us out of these multiple crises. Marois offers a compelling analysis built upon solid economics and historical perspective, underpinned by a deep concern for advancing social justice. As the enormously destructive era of global and local neoliberalism is finally coming to an end, this book will play an important role in bringing the public banking concept back in from the cold.' Milford Bateman, Juraj Dobrila University of Pula, Croatia and St Mary's University, Canada'This is a thoroughly researched book: It makes a strong case for financial institutions in the public interest, aimed to advance societal goals and to respond to emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. It is certainly a welcome invitation for civil society organisations and scholars from North and South to engage in a debate to reclaim public finance, towards realising institutions that serve society and protect the planet.' María José Romero, Policy and Advocacy Manager, the European Network on Debt and Development (Eurodad), Brussels'This book reconsiders public banks as agents of sustainable development and social inclusion. For decades, public banks were perceived as antiques responsible for financial repression. Marois traces the resurgence of state banking and challenges scholars, activists, and public officials to realize the potential of these often immense financial institutions to reverse the forces of climate change, inequality, and social exclusion. He illuminates the single most important dimension and greatest opportunity for green development and social inclusion of our time.' Kurt Mettenheim, FGV-EAESP, BrazilTable of ContentsIntroducing Public Banks; 1. The World of Public Banks; 2. Contrasting Evidence, Contending Views: Towards a Dynamic Alternative; 3. Credible Legacies, Neoliberal Transition; 4. Decarbonisation; 5. Definancialisation; 6. Democratisation; 7. A Democratised Public Bank for a Green and Just Transition: A Proposal; 8. Epilogue Public Banks in a Time of COVID-19; Bibliography; Index.

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Book SynopsisElectric wind offers an innovative history of modern Britain, told through the pursuit of wind energy. -- .

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Book SynopsisA THE TIMES BEST SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENT BOOK OF THE YEAR'AN IMPORTANT READ FOR ANYONE IN NEED OF OPTIMISM' BILL GATES'DAZZLING AND DEEPLY REPORTED' DAVID WALLACE-WELLS'HIGHLY READABLE . . . ENGAGING STORIES OF PEOPLE BEHIND SOME OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ADVANCES IN RECENT DECADES' FINANCIAL TIMESIt's now cheaper to save the world than destroy it.Our age will be defined by the climate emergency. But contrary to the doomist narrative that's taken hold, the world has already begun deploying the solutions needed to deal with it.On a journey across five continents, Climate Capitalism tracks the unlikely heroes driving the fight against climate change. From the Chinese bureaucrat who did more to make electric cars a reality than Elon Musk, to the Danish students who helped to build the world's longest-operating wind turbine, or the American oil executive building the technology that can reverse climate damages, we meet the people working to scale technologies that are finally able to bend the emissions curve.Through stories that bring people, policy and technology together, Akshat Rathi reveals how the green economy is not only possible, but profitable. This inspiring blend of business, science, and history provides the framework for ensuring that future generations can live in prosperity and that the wheels of progress don't falter.Trade ReviewFew books on either climate or capitalism manage to be as insightful as they are readable, but Rathi cracks it. He delivers his powerful and hopeful message with both substance and style, and reminds us of the immensely important role of great storytelling as we reimagine our economy -- Paul Polman, co-author of NET-POSITIVE and former CEO of Unilever[A] bold new book. Climate change is a crisis that requires urgent action, but Rathi shows how we can harness capitalism to tackle it. Give it to the doomsayer in your life -- John Schwartz, journalism professor at UT Austin and veteran NYT reporterAre you suffering from climate anxiety? Go take a few deep breaths and then pre-order this book. You'll learn about fascinating people who show that solutions for climate change are both possible and profitable -- Will Mathis, reporter for Bloomberg NewsThere are very few people as well-situated as Akshat Rathi is to describe and assess our current efforts to cope with climate change . . . Here he puts it all together in a marvelous report . . . [Rathi] gives hope that we might make it work. An inspiring book! -- Kim Stanley RobinsonIt's easy to feel fear or despair in the face of humanity's greatest challenge, but fortunately work on solutions began decades ago . . . Rathi's brilliantly written account of some of those stories is an inspiration to keep going in a fight which we have no other option than to win -- Bryony Worthington, member of the UK’s House of LordsAddressing climate change will make us richer, happier, healthier, more equal and more safe. Do we take the bargain? That is the animating question of Rathi's illuminating and incisive book, which offers the dazzling and deeply reported argument that the answer should be, overwhelmingly, yes -- David Wallace-Wells, author of THE UNINHABITABLE EARTHClimate innovation has accelerated far faster than many realize and by shining a spotlight on the solutions and innovators driving progress, Climate Capitalism is an important read for anyone in need of optimism about our ability to build a clean energy future -- Bill GatesA highly readable reminder that efforts to cut emissions are achieving a lot more than is widely realised. Rathi brings this shift to life with engaging stories of people behind some of the most important advances in recent decades -- Pilita Clark, Financial Times

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Book SynopsisBioethanol and Beyond: Advances in Production Process and Future Directions discusses the advances in the production process of bioethanol, ranging from first to fourth generation bioethanol. Bioethanol is currently applied besides simple fuels (biofuel): it is mixed with other fuels, such as gasoline and diesel, and used for generating renewable fuels, such as hydrogen. Advances in the industrial bioethanol (first and second generation) chain point towards the co-energy generation, in situ, and the possibility of generating outside the industry via energetic densification of the residues. A biorefinery is suggested as a strategy to use the industrial residues by amplifying the products portfolio and, thus, collaborating with the process feasibility. The book covers the technological possibilities to produce bioethanol. These processes include the second generation with the use of structural sugars from the plant cell wall and residues from algae (third and fourth generation bioethanol). The fermentation process and contamination in the industrial fermentation is presented, as well as strategies for its control. Pretreatment technologies, enzymatic hydrolysis technologies, and the search for enzymes are described based on recent developments and finds. When it comes to commercialization, technical-analytical standards have been developed in order to control bioethanol quality, contributing to overcome technical barriers and providing product reliability. This book covers the most important tasks in the production process and future directions for the uses, which is a very useful source of information for everything involved in bioethanol science. In particular, this book will answer the questions of students and researches regarding bioethanol production process, as well as professionals in the industry supply chain.

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Book SynopsisThe move towards 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. The main themes include differences between countries in the European Union concerning energy consumption, energy security, smart metering, and resistance to change. Part 2 presents challenges to innovation in different economic systems. The authors contrast developed European and North American systems with emerging economies such as that of China. Their focus is on improving the innovation capabilities of firms and organizations through enhanced access to knowledge. Solutions include corporate collaborations with the academic sector and access to investment capital. Part 3 surveys the range of industry sectors that are adopting environmentally-friendly solutions. There is a special focus on start-up companies that are working to bring new energy-production technologies to the market.

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Book SynopsisThis book offers a unique overview of usage of biomass, biomaterials, and bioproducts, including biopolymers. Included are materials, processes, usage as an energy source, and, in particular, applications. It is intended to educate both professionals and graduate students, who typically must acquire knowledge outside of traditional academic disciplines to gain an appreciation of these systems.While the growing need for renewable energy can be satisfied from other renewable sources, biomass is our only real source of renewable carbon-based chemicals and fuels. More and more companies are moving toward using these materials, and investing in new technology based on renewable resources to develop their businesses in a sustainable way.Despite this, few scientists and engineers have been appropriately trained to work in the interdisciplinary field of the biomass economy. Traditional academic disciplines are not well organized to train engineers and scientists to develop new bio-refinery concepts and bio-based products (including bio-based polymers) in industry, nor to develop and integrate pathways to convert biomass into other forms of energy and useful products. The integration of old and new pathways to satisfy global and local markets is the basic skill required to create new biomass processing alternatives. This book is written to fill this gap.

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Book SynopsisSolar energy is derived ultimately from the sun. It can be divided into direct and indirect categories. Most energy sources on Earth are forms of indirect solar energy, although we usually don''t think of them in that way. Coal, oil and natural gas derive from ancient biological material which took its energy from the sun (via plant photosynthesis) millions of years ago. All the energy in wood and foodstuffs also comes from the sun. Movement of the wind (which causes waves at sea), and the evaporation of water to form rainfall which accumulates in rivers and lakes, are also powered by the sun. Therefore, hydroelectric power and wind and wave power are forms of indirect solar energy. Direct solar energy is what we usually mean when we speak of solar power -- it is the use of sunlight for heating or generating electricity. Solar energy research and applications have been receiving increasing attention throughout the world as solar energy must play a much greater role in the energy mix in upcoming years. This book examines new research in this frontier field.

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Book SynopsisThis book addresses the rapid developments in the new field of solar resource knowledge as a reflection of growing needs of management of renewable energy resources. The authors have structured the content of this work as a set of contributions from the research, international and commercial institutions. The chapters discuss the availability of new primary data, basic concepts of research trends and approaches developed for providing higher resolution data and value-added products in an operational mode. Based on the experience from commercial and aid-providing sphere, individual and more generic barriers have been identified and solutions for overcoming them are discussed. The approaches exploiting geographical information systems, integrating spatial data and methods, outline directions for decision-making and management of distributed energy systems, considering regional and time variability at various hierarchical scales. The final contributions point out that the recent developments gave an impetus for complementing the traditional applications of Earth observation data by renewable energy programs.

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Book SynopsisToday the energy sources used to create electricity differ in many ways, including in their environmental impacts. In the United States, conventional means of electricity generation use fossil or nuclear fuels--forms of power generation that impact human health and the environment through air emissions and other effects. Despite advances in pollution controls over the last 30 years, conventional power generation is still the nation''s single largest source of industrial air pollution. Electricity markets are changing, however, offering cleaner ways of producing power and giving many consumers the ability to choose how their power is generated. One of these choices is power from renewable sources that is marketed as green power. Innovative organisations are encouraging the use of these new sources of green power and, at the same time, are reducing their own impact on the environment. In some parts of the United States, the deregulation of electricity has enabled consumers to choose the provider of their electric power and thus to buy green power from their chosen supplier. In regulated markets, too, hundreds of utilities now offer their customers the opportunity to purchase green power through green-pricing" programs. Even in areas where consumers cannot buy green power directly, renewable energy certificates (RECs) are available in every state to allow consumers to support green power. While no form of electric power generation is completely benign, electricity generated from renewable resources such as solar, wind, geothermal, small and low-impact hydro power, and biomass has proved to be environmentally preferable to electricity generated from conventional energy sources such as coal, oil, nuclear, and natural gas. The Guide to Purchasing Green Power focuses on electricity generated from renewable energy resources, both delivered through the grid and generated on-site. By buying green power instead of conventional power, consumers can reduce the environmental impact caused by their use of electricity and fossil fuel. For instance, on average, every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of renewable power avoids the emission of more than one pound of carbon dioxide. Because of the sheer quantities of energy involved, consumers of a large amount of electricity may have an enormous environmental impact. If the typical commercial facility switched to 100 percent renewable power or used RECs to offset emissions, this could amount to thousands of tons of emissions avoided each year. A wide range of organisations have purchased green power: federal, state, and local governments; universities; businesses; nonprofits; and individual consumers. By purchasing green power, these organisations are both helping the environment and meeting their own environmental goals. The many other benefits to buying green power range from financial benefits to public relations and even national security. As of the end of 2003, nearly 1,650 megawatts(MW) of new renewable generating capacity had been added to meet the United States'' demand for green power. This capacity is enough to meet the annual electricity needs of more than 500,000 houses. Leading organisations are finding that green power is an effective part of a strategic energy management plan to achieve environmental, financial, and other goals. Successful energy management plans are often a "portfolio analysis" that considers options such as energy efficiency, load management, power purchases, on-site generation, and non-electric (thermal) energy needs. As with any investment portfolio, the best mix of these options depends on the particular situation. Because buying green power is still relatively uncommon in today''s energy markets and because these markets offer a wide range of choices, this book provides leading-research for organisations that have decided to buy green power but want help in figuring out how to do it, as well as for organisations that are still considering the merits of buying green power.

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Book SynopsisHigh petroleum and gasoline prices, concerns over global climate change, and the desire to promote domestic rural economies have greatly increased interest in biofuels as an alternative to petroleum in the U.S. transportation sector. While recent proposals have set the goal of significantly expanding biofuel supply in the coming decades, questions remain about the ability of the U.S. biofuel industry to meet rapidly increasing demands. This book outlines some of the current supply issues facing biofuels industries, including implications for agricultural feedstocks, infrastructure concerns, energy supply for biofuel production, and fuel price uncertainties. Included in this book is a summary of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 as well as an analysis of this document and testimonial responses to the issues it raises.

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Book SynopsisRising energy prices and concern over greenhouse gas emissions have focused congressional attention on energy alternatives, including wind power. Although wind power currently provides only a small fraction of U.S. energy needs, it is growing more rapidly than any other electricity source. Wind energy already plays a significant role in several European nations, and countries like China and India are rapidly expanding their capacity both to manufacture wind turbines and to integrate wind power into their electricity grids. This book describes utility-scale wind power issues in the United States as well as background on wind energy, wind resources and technology, industry composition and trends, wind power economics and policy issues. Other policy questions, such as federal funding for wind research and development, and siting and permitting requirements, are also outlined.

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Book SynopsisThis book looks at U.S. biobased products and their market potential. This study is based upon data and assumptions as of 2006 which were used to identify the market potential for biobased products -- their production volumes and applications -- through the year 2025. Market penetration was assessed based on information available through April 2006 and benchmark assumptions with respect to factors such as policy, biobased feedstock prices, and energy prices. Recent results of the benchmark assumptions, however, have not materialised; corn prices have increased, the market prices for biofuels are lower, and the infrastructure costs continue to increase. If such trends that lead to low profit margins continue, there will be a slowing effect on the biofuels industry. Furthermore, with the dynamic nature of the biobased industry affecting short term developments, the long term trends toward 2025 could vary widely based upon future policy, research, and market developments. Such potential outcomes are discussed in this book.

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Book SynopsisOffshore wind power is poised to deliver an essential contribution to a clean, robust and diversified U.S. energy portfolio. Capturing and using this large and inexhaustible resource has the potential to mitigate climate change, improve the environment, increase energy security and stimulate the U.S. economy. The United States is now deliberating an energy policy that will have a powerful impact on the nation''s energy and economic health for decades to come. This book provides a broad understanding of today''s wind industry and the offshore resource, as well as the associated technology challenges, economics, permitting procedures and potential risks and benefits.

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Book SynopsisThis book examines 2011 trends in the U.S. "voluntary" markets - those in which consumers and institutions purchase renewable energy to match their electricity needs on a voluntary basis. This review uses available data sources to capture 2011 voluntary market trends, status and options.

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Book SynopsisIn the United States, growing awareness of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the possible implications for global climate change have combined with recent high energy prices and economic uncertainty to rekindle interest in renewable energy. Renewable energy technologies generate electricity from resources such as the sun, wind, or biomass, with essentially no net GHG emissions. President Obama has declared a goal for the United States to become the world''s leading exporter of renewable energy technologies, setting out policy objectives for the development of related "green jobs". This book discusses what "green job" are, and provides highlights on challenges of targeted training programs for emerging industries.

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Book SynopsisEach year, scientists issue ever more dire warnings about the progress of climate change and its disastrous impact on humanity and all life on earth, and for many Americans, combating this destructive trend is a leading priority. One of the most important steps is to reduce dependence on "dirty energy" sources, like fossil fuels, and to shift to using renewable energy. This issue of The Reference Shelf looks at the renewable energy debate and draws from the press and politics to gather opinions about subjects like wind and wave energy, the future of solar energy, the challenge of designing eco-friendly energy storage, and the difficulties in tackling fossil fuel dominance in the energy industry.

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Book SynopsisThis book presents the latest research in the field of machine learning, discussing the real-world application problems associated with new innovative renewable energy methodologies as well as cutting edge technologies in the transport industry. The requirements and demands of problem solving have been increasing exponentially, and new artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies have reduced the scope of data coverage worldwide. Recent advances in data technology (DT) have contributed to reducing the gaps in the coverage of domains around the globe. Attention to clean energy in recent decades has been growing exponentially. This is mainly due to a decrease in the cost of both installed capacity of converters and a decrease in the cost of generated energy. Such successes were achieved thanks to the improvement of modern technologies for the production of converters, an increase in the efficiency of using incoming energy, optimisation of the operation of converters and analysis of data obtained during the operation of systems with the possibility of planning production. The use of clean energy plays an important role in the transportation industry, where technologies are also being improved from year to year - the transportation industry is growing, and machinery and systems are becoming more autonomous and robotic, where it is no longer possible to do without complex intelligent computing, machine learning optimisation, planning and working with large amounts of data. The book is a valuable reference work for researchers in the fields of renewable energy, computer science and engineering with a particular focus on machine learning and intelligent optimization as well as for postgraduates, managers, economists and decision makers, policy makers, government officials, industrialists and practicing scientists and engineers as well compassionate global decision makers. Topics include: Machine learning, Quantum Optimization, Modern Technology in Transport Industry, Innovative Technologies in Transport Education, Systems Based on Renewable Energy Conversion, Business Process Models and Applications in Renewable Energy, Clean Energy, and Climate Change.Table of ContentsPreface; RES-based Multipurpose Plant for Hydrogen Production; Developing a Bayesian Network to Model Environmental, Organizational, and Human Risk Factors: A Case Study on Wind Turbines; Digital Technologies for the Implementation of Intelligent Diagnostics of the Insulation of Power Supply Systems with Insulated Neutral in Operating Mode; Irrigation System of Agricultural Fields with the Use of Solar Energy; Strategies Hybrid Simulation for Regional Market Development of Renewable Energy; RES-Based Power Plants Versus Polluting Power Plants: Pros and Cons; A Comprehensive Study of System Building Blocks for Radio Frequency Energy Harvesting; The Management of Community Participation in Rural Infrastructure Development in the Mekong River Delta, Vietnam; Warning System for Cracked Pipes in Autonomous Vehicles; Contribution of Machine Learning to Rail Transport Safety; The Power of Variable Freeing and Variable Sum Bounds in Solving the Linear Knapsack Problem; Index.

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Book Synopsis'[An] impressively comprehensive, concise introduction to the biggest challenge facing us all – how to get our act together to keep our only planet habitable, for ourselves, our descendants and the living nature we depend on.' Walt Patterson____________‘"Energy" might be a short word, but it's a very big subject, and indeed one of the most important facing our world today. Understanding the ins and outs of how we make the transition to clean energy is a vital modern competence. Stephen Peake provides a top briefing. Informative, accessible and comprehensive, it is a must read for anyone interested in the future of our planet.’ Tony Juniper CBE____________‘The author says it all in his introduction: "Renewable energy powered our lives long before fossil fuels and will do so long after." As successive nations and corporations commit to net zero, the idea of getting our useful work done using clean non-depleting resources is of paramount importance. This witty, wide-ranging yet succinct guide provides a whistle-stop tour of the principal renewable energy technologies and places them elegantly in the contemporary economic, social and political context.’ Jonathan Scurlock, Chief Adviser, Renewable Energy and Climate Change at the National Farmers’ Union–––––––––––––Professor Stephen Peake takes us on a guided tour of the ten most essential aspects of this timely and fast-moving science, examining the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy that lies at the heart of a brighter climate future.Renewable energy is central to managing climate change and our transition to a sustainable energy supply for the 10 billion of us who will populate the earth by 2050. But how will we cope without fossil fuels to heat, cool and light our buildings, power our industry and run our transport systems? And are some renewables better than others? 10 Short Lessons in Renewable Energy distils the key issues of this timely subject, examining how we can harness the power of a range of groundbreaking energy technologies most effectively to achieve a sustainable energy future.About the series: The Pocket Einstein series is a collection of essential pocket-sized guides for anyone looking to understand a little more about some of the most important and fascinating areas of science in the twenty-first century. Broken down into ten simple lessons and written by leading experts in their field, discover the ten most important takeaways from those areas of science you’ve always wanted to know more about.

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Book SynopsisRecognizing the urgent need to transform energy systems to low-carbon alternatives, this timely book offers evidenced and credible ways to accelerate actions towards meeting the Paris Agreement goals and achieving net zero emissions. Steven Fries analyses through the lens of government, business and household actions—their policies and investments—the systemic changes needed to eliminate net carbon dioxide emissions from energy.Fries explores how advancing low-carbon alternatives could maintain current economic activities while halting climate impacts. But his analysis of accumulating evidence on transforming energy shows how multiple market imperfections hold back alternatives. To overcome these barriers, the book develops heterodox energy reform strategies and ways to coordinate actions across countries, recognizing differences in their specializations and renewable resources. Going beyond orthodox economics, it sets out the role for supporting deployment of low-carbon alternatives in initial markets, calibrating emissions pricing to net zero emission goals, and adapting institutions and infrastructures to low-carbon alternatives. It also signposts policy sequencing and differentiation across sectors and countries.Providing comprehensive energy policy assessments and sound reform strategies, this book will be essential reading for government policymakers and business investors. Its rigorous approach to systemic change also makes it a valuable reference for energy economics and environmental economics scholars.Trade Review‘The world economy must transform fundamentally in the next three decades if we are to avoid the most dangerous impacts of climate change; we must go to net zero emissions. Radical change in the energy systems will be at the core. This book examines what is involved in, and required, for such unprecedented transformation. It brings great wisdom, knowledge, judgement and analytical strength to a complicated but vital problem. It is based on experience at the highest levels in government, business and finance. It marshals an understanding of systems, policies and markets, with all their imperfections and power, in a very effective and illuminating way. This is a deep, thoughtful and important book; an outstanding contribution.' -- Lord Nicholas Stern, London School of Economics, UK‘Reaching net zero requires transformational change, fast. Steven Fries, who has fought on the front line of climate and energy issues for decades, argues for a “heterodox policy mix”, with governments stepping up their industrial policy. This book offers valuable insight into the changes necessary to get to net zero.’ -- Cameron Hepburn, University of Oxford, UKTable of ContentsContents: Preface Introduction to Transforming Energy Systems PART I MODERNITY, THE CLIMATE AND NET ZERO EMISSIONS 1. Energy capture and modernity 2. Useful energy and the climate 3. Net zero emissions and low-carbon alternatives PART II ADVANCING AND GUIDING LOW-CARBON ALTERNATIVES 4. Supporting innovation and early deployment of low-carbon alternatives 5. Calibrating emissions pricing 6. Adapting energy-market designs and infrastructures 7. Making better use of energy and materials PART III ENERGY-REFORM INTERESTS AND STRATEGIES 8. Interests in low-carbon technologies and renewable resources 9. Accelerating change References Index

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Book SynopsisRenewable energy technologies produce many measurable benefits, such as a clear reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. However, it is also apparent that these methods of energy production come with costs. Discussing renewable energy developments within an economic context, this pertinent Handbook provides a comprehensive view of the present and future dimensions of renewable energy use.Divided into six authoritative parts, the Handbook employs economic evaluation to provide an analysis of the benefits and costs of renewable energy, allowing authors to extrapolate potential policy changes. Chapters address the conceptual, methodological and empirical dimensions of renewable energy, providing a broad coverage of key topics while maintaining a clear policy-oriented philosophy.With a structured application of energy economics to renewable energy issues, this enlightening Handbook will be beneficial for environmental and energy policy makers. It will also be an interesting read for academics within such fields as policy regulation, energy economics and environmental economics.Trade Review‘The global need for aggressive deployment of renewable energy is self-evident. This book, a fabulous compilation from the world’s leading thinkers, provides crucial insights to manage the clean energy transition.’ -- Ryan Wiser, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, US‘Just as the energy and climate crisis trigger a burst of policy initiatives on renewables, 52 researchers that have shaped the economic and policy analysis for renewables over the last two decades review the methodological and empirical foundation. A valuable overview and timely reminder of relevant lessons, for example on framework conditions such as targets and policy stability.’ -- Karsten Neuhoff, German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin) and Technische Universität Berlin, GermanyTable of ContentsContents: 1 Introduction to the Handbook on the Economics of Renewable Energy 1 Pablo del Río and Mario Ragwitz PART I SETTING THE SCENE: THEORETICAL/METHODOLOGICAL GUIDELINES ON THE ECONOMICS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY 2 Costs and benefits of the energy transition 11 Barbara Breitschopf, Julia Panny and Anne Held 3 Energy system modelling of renewable energy and related energy infrastructure needs 41 Gustav Resch, Franziska Schöniger, Florian Hasengst, Demet Suna, Gerhard Totschnig and Frank Sensfuß 4 Econometric modeling of renewable energy deployment 77 Consolación Quintana-Rojo, Miguel-Ángel Tarancón and Fernando Callejas-Albiñana PART II FOCUS ON SOCIOECONOMIC BENEFITS 5 Extended input-output tables to analyze the benefits of renewable energy deployment 101 Santacruz Banacloche, Ana Rosa Gamarra, Natàlia Caldés and Yolanda Lechón 6 The socioeconomic benefits of renewable energy projects 118 Ana Rosa Gamarra, Santacruz Banacloche, Natàlia Caldés and Yolanda Lechón 7 Green jobs in the Spanish renewable energy sector: an input-output approach 138 Manuel Tomás, Ignacio Cazcarro, Julen Montilla, Cristina Pizarro-Irizar and Iñaki Arto PART III FOCUS ON COSTS 8 The grid costs of renewable energy deployment 158 Joan Batalla-Bejerano, Daniel Davi-Arderius and Elisa Trujillo-Baute 9 Guiding the transition: design challenges in decarbonising electricity markets 179 Timo Gerres, José Pablo Chaves,Francisco Martín, Michel Rivier, Álvaro Sánchez and Tomás Gómez PART IV FOCUS ON THE BOTTOM-UP: SELF-GENERATION AND COLLECTIVE ENERGY ACTIONS 10 An economic approach to photovoltaic microgeneration 206 Pere Mir-Artigues 11 Enhancing energy democracy and tackling energy poverty by fostering the uptake of renewable energy: the case of Greece 231 Eleni Kanellou, Ifigenia Tsakalogianni, Haris Doukas and Yannis Maniatis PART V FUTURE-LOOKING PERSPECTIVES: GEOPOLITICAL, RISKS/FINANCIAL AND INNOVATION PERSPECTIVES 12 The economic benefits of renewable energies: a geopolitical perspective 251 Gonzalo Escribano and Lara Lázaro Touza 13 Drivers and barriers to renewable electricity technologies: lessons from the technological innovation system approach 284 Pablo del Río and Christoph P. Kiefer 14 Analyzing the suitability and role of modern portfolio theory for renewable energy planning 308 Fernando de Llano Paz, Javier Eduardo Afonso Arévalo and Guillermo Iglesias Gómez 15 A mixed-integer linear programming approach for an optimal-economic design of renewable district heating systems: a case study for a German grid 340 Maximilian Sporleder, Michael Rath, Markus Jansen and Robin Mann PART VI RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY 16 The economic analysis of renewable energy policies: a general overview and a historical perspective 365 Christoph P. Kiefer, Pablo del Río, Leticia García-Martínez 17 Renewable energy auctions: an overview 392 Vasilios Anatolitis, Jenny Winkler 18 The role of design elements in instrument mixes: the case of auctions and renewable portfolio standards in South Korea 420 Tae-Hyeong Kwon and Pablo del Río 19 Climate-related development aid for renewable energy projects: an analysis of its trends and role in fostering the low carbon transition in official development aid recipients 442 Cristina Peñasco 20 Conclusion to the Handbook on the Economics of Renewable Energy 471 Pablo del Río and Mario Ragwitz Index 475

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