When Rudolph Diesel invented his engine in the late 19th century, he envisioned a device that could run anywhere on a wide range of local fuels. A century later, Greg Pahl recalls that vision. He points out that biodiesel is more biodegradable than sugar and less toxic than table salt. It can be produced from domestic feedstocks, thus reducing the need for foreign oil while boosting the local economy. Biodiesel can reduce net CO2 emissions by 78% compared with petroleum diesel fuel, cutting greenhouse gases that lead to global warming. In this book Pahl explores the successes and current shortcomings of biodiesel. 2005, Chelsea Green
Biodiesel Power is the chronicle of an emerging industry. Lightly touching on the technical aspects of the fuel, the book is largely about the people and politics of the biodiesel movement. It explores the tensions between grassroots activists, altruistic co-ops, profit-minded commercial producers, and the current administration. Compelling and timely, this is the history of biodiesel in the making. 2005, New Society Publishers
This comprehensive assessment from Worldwatch Institute focuses on the opportunities and risks of the large-scale production of biofuels. It demystifies complex questions and concerns, such as the food vs. fuel debate. Global in scope, it is further informed by five country studies, from Brazil, China, Germany, India and Tanzania. The authors conclude that biofuels will play a significant role in our energy future, but warn that the large-scale use of biofuels carries risks that require focused and immediate policy initiatives. 2007, Earthscan Publications
Sustainable Ethanol looks at the benefits and limitations of North America's fuel ethanol industry, as it becomes more efficient and less reliant on fossil fuel inputs. Some cars can get better fuel economy on 10% ethanol compared to ethanol-free gasoline, and the next generation of flex-fuel and hybrid vehicles could be optimized to get even better fuel economy on ethanol. The authors maintain that North America can produce significant quantities of biofuels without damaging our food production capacity and show how ethanol can be made from waste materials and soil-restoring perennial crops. 2007, Prairie Oak Publishing
More than 20 countries generate electricity from geothermal resources and about 60 countries make direct use of geothermal energy. A ten-fold increase in geothermal use is foreseeable at the current technology level. This up-to-date book covers all facets of geothermal energy development and summarizes the present knowledge of geothermal resources, their exploration and use. Resource models, exploration techniques, drilling and production technology as well as current technological developments are discussed. 2006, Elsevier Science
Beginning with an overview of geothermal energy and current technology, leading experts in the field cover electricity generation, non-electric uses, environmental impacts and economic, financial and legal considerations in the use of geothermal energy. Case studies are included throughout. While written for professionals and students, the book is accessible to those new to the field who want to learn about this exciting alternative energy source. 2005, Earthscan Publications
Hydrogen has emerged as an essential area for research and technology development worldwide. This book explores the forces driving the market for hydrogen-powered fuel cells, as well as the technical and economic barriers that could derail a transition toward hydrogen energy systems. It explains how hydrogen is produced, stored, and transported, as well as the economics of these activities and their environmental impact. 2005, PennWell Corp
This authoritative book addresses the key issues and actions that need to be taken to achieve a changeover to hydrogen power as it relates to vehicles and transportation, and explores whether such a transition is likely, or even possible. The authors recognize the need to utilize hydrogen as a clean energy source, and present comprehensive information analyzing the use of hydrogen as an alternative fuel. They outline initiatives that will mold the research, development and education efforts needed for hydrogen to become commercially and politically viable. 2004, Academic Press
Hydrogen has been viewed as the holy grail of clean energy; in this fascinating book, Romm, a Dept. of Energy advisor, makes a compelling case for believing that widespread use of hydrogen is still four to five decades away. The challenge facing entrepreneurs is whether to make fuel-cell vehicles marketable before the hydrogen infrastructure is in place; Romm warns that overenthusiasm for a still embryonic technology could delay its full flowering even further. Vital, readable guidance for investors, environmentalists and those looking towards a clean energy future. 2005, Island Press
Hydrogen specialist Hoffmann chronicles the worldwide progression of hydrogen energy from a niche market to a viable commercial product. He argues that fossil fuels will not be cheap to find in the future, and that hydrogen is ideal as a nonpolluting form of energy for fuel cells. He clearly covers safety issues, economics, and the dificulty in moving our national energy policy away from fossil fuels. 2002, The MIT Press
