Waubonsee Community College

The powers that be, global energy for the twenty-first century and beyond, Scott L. Montgomery

eng

Includes bibliographical references (pages 299-328) and index

illustrations

index present

non fiction

The powers that be

bibliography

457149573

Scott L. Montgomery

global energy for the twenty-first century and beyond

Thirty years ago, our global energy landscape did not look remarkably different from what it does today. Three or four decades from now, it certainly will: dwindling oil reserves will clash with skyrocketing demand, as developing nations around the world lead their citizens into the modern energy economy, and all the while, the grave threat of catastrophic climate change looms ever larger. Energy worries are at an all-time high, and just how will we power our future? With this book the author cuts through the hype, alarmism, and confusion to give us a straightforward, informed account of where we are now, and a map of where we are going. Starting with the inescapable fact of our current dependence on fossil fuels, which supply 80 percent of all our energy needs today, the author clearly and carefully lays out the many alternative energy options available, ranging from the familiar, like water and solar, to such nascent but promising sources as hydrogen and geothermal power. What is crucial, he explains, is understanding that our future will depend not on some single, wondrous breakthrough; instead, we should focus on developing a more diverse, adaptable energy future, one that draws on a variety of sources, and is thus less vulnerable to disruption or failure. The author enables readers to understand the implications of energy funding, research, and politics at a global scale. At the same time, he does not neglect the ultimate connection between those decisions and the average citizen flipping a light switch or sliding behind the wheel of a car. -- From publisher's description

What binds us all -- Our energy past: does it hold any lessons? -- Our energy present: global trends and what they mean -- Oil reality: burning questions -- Natural gas: the lighter side of fossil fuels -- Coal: once and future king? -- The great debate: when will the wells run dry? -- Nuclear power: a new context, changing views -- Renewable energy 1: the real and the possible -- Renewable energy 2: sources, technologies, limitations -- Hydrogen: forever fuel, or wishful thinking? -- Fusion energy: some like it hot -- Geopolitics and energy: an evolving geography -- The technology imperative: some reflections -- Climate change and energy: playing with fire, air, earth, and water -- Conclusion: final thoughts on new beginnings