Energy myths and realities : bringing science to the energy policy debate

Author(s)

Bibliographic Information

Energy myths and realities : bringing science to the energy policy debate

Vaclav Smil

AEI Press , Distributed by Rowman & Littlefield, c2010

Available at  / 7 libraries

Search this Book/Journal

Note

Includes bibliographical references (p. 177-195) and index

Description and Table of Contents

Description

There are many misconceptions about the future of global energy often presented as fact by the media, politicians, business leaders, activists, and even scientists-wasting time and money and hampering the development of progressive energy policies. Energy Myths and Realities: Bringing Science to the Energy Policy Debate debunks the most common fallacies to make way for a constructive, scientific approach to the global energy challenge. When will the world run out of oil? Should nuclear energy be adopted on a larger scale? Are ethanol and wind power viable sources of energy for the future? Vaclav Smil advises the public to be wary of exaggerated claims and impossible promises. The global energy transition will be prolonged and expensive-and hinges on the development of an extensive new infrastructure. Established technologies and traditional energy sources are persistent and adaptable enough to see the world through that transition. Energy Myths and Realities brings a scientific perspective to an issue often dominated by groundless assertions, unfounded claims, and uncritical thinking. Before we can create sound energy policies for the future, we must renounce the popular myths that cloud our judgment and impede true progress.

Table of Contents

List of Figures Key to Units of Measure Introduction Part I: Lessons from the Past Chapter 1: The Future Belongs to Electric Cars Chapter 2: Nuclear Electricity Will Be Too Cheap to Meter Chapter 3: Soft Energy Illusions Part II: Myths in the Headlines Chapter 4: Running Out: Peak Oil and Its Meaning Chapter 5: Sequestration of Carbon Dioxide Chapter 6: Liquid Fuels from Plants Chapter 7: Electricity from Wind Chapter 8: The Pace of Engery Transitions Conclusion: Lessons and Policy Implications Notes References Index About the Author

by "Nielsen BookData"

Details

  • NCID
    BB04027247
  • ISBN
    • 9780844743288
  • LCCN
    2010009437
  • Country Code
    us
  • Title Language Code
    eng
  • Text Language Code
    eng
  • Place of Publication
    Washington, D.C.,Lanham, Md.
  • Pages/Volumes
    xiv, 213 p.
  • Size
    24 cm
  • Classification
  • Subject Headings
Page Top