Energy in the 21st Century

Many events that affect global energy production and consumption have occurred since the second edition of Energy in the 21st Century appeared in 2011. For example, an earthquake and tsunami in Japan led to the disruption of the Fukushima nuclear facility and a global re-examination of the safety of the nuclear industry. Oil and natural gas prices continue to be volatile, and the demand for energy has been affected by the global economy. The third edition updates data and the discussion of recent events.

Energy in the 21st Century has been used as the text for an introductory energy course for the general college student population. Based on student feedback, we have included several features that enhance the value of the third edition as a textbook. In particular, we have included learning objectives at the beginning of each chapter, end of chapter activities, a comprehensive index, and a glossary. Points to Ponder are abbreviated as P2P in the Learning Objectives boxes and are provided throughout the text. They are designed to encourage the reader to consider the material from different perspectives.

Contents:

• A Brief History of Energy Consumption
• Fossil Energy — Coal
• Fossil Energy — Oil and Gas
• Peak Oil
• Nuclear Energy
• Renewable Energy — Solar Energy
• Renewable Energy — Wind Energy
• Renewable Energy — Energy From Water
• Renewable Energy — Bioenergy and Synfuels
• Energy Carrier, Energy Storage and Hybrid Energy Systems
• Electricity Generation and Distribution
• Energy Economics
• Future Issues — Geopolitics of Energy
• Future Issues — Energy Forecasts

Readership: Students, professionals, undergraduates and general public interested in energy studies.
Key Features:

• Easy to read and understand by the general student population
• It provides a balanced presentation of the relative merits of the most significant energy options
• Classroom tested and incorporates modern learning techniques