Global Energy: An Introduction

The world is currently facing a global energy challenge, with a "trilemma" of issues which include energy security, energy equity and environmental sustainability. Meeting this energy trilemma relies on understanding the complex relationships between thermodynamics and markets. This book provides readers with a broad vision of how energy generation and distribution systems function together to provide global energy, as well as giving them a technical understanding of individual energy technologies. Chapters cover the basic definitions and concepts necessary to understand the energy industry, different fossil fuel generating technologies (coal, oil and gas), carbonless energy generation, and promising future technologies and their possible impact. Throughout the book thumbnail sketches are given of energy systems in a variety of regions illustrating different approaches to energy provision, including energy giants such as the USA and EU, future super-giants such as China and India, and aspirational developing countries. Written by a world authority, this textbook will be of interest to graduate students and undergraduates on advanced courses in energy, environment and materials, as well as academic professionals, policy makers and those working in industry.