Alternative Energy: Facts, Statistics, and Issues (Alternative Energy) [Paperback]

Paula Berinstein (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 1573562483 | ISBN-13: 978-1573562485 | Publication Date: June 30, 2001 | Edition: 1st

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.

Editorial Reviews

From 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 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Review

"This excellent handbook writes its own very accurate review in its preface: "While a mountain of information about alternative energy exists, laying one's hands on a concise summary of the state of the art remains difficult. Hence, this volume, which gathers disparate and scattered information, provides a pithy overview of the industry, and the context in which it operates..,."well documented, and very interesting volume."-SB & F

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 232 pages
• Publisher: Greenwood; 1st edition (June 30, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1573562483
• ISBN-13: 978-1573562485
• Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,130,064 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Paula Berinstein (Paula B) is the author of seven geeky nonfiction books, including Making Space Happen and Alternative Energy: Facts, Issues, and Statistics. She has also written numerous magazine articles and tons of Amazon Kindle articles.

Paula produces and hosts the popular podcast The Writing Show (writingshow.com) and is well respected as a story consultant. She holds degrees in English literature and librarianship from UCLA.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Alternative Energy, November 7, 2007

By 

R. Calloway "Warpain" (Panola, Texas) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Alternative Energy: Facts, Statistics, and Issues (Alternative Energy) (Paperback)

Folks, This is a great read, especially if you are concerned about present day conditions with oil and climate issues. Also feel free to visit: www.callowayengines.com to help with these perplexing problems that are approaching us at a breakneck speed.