A compendium of current knowledge about conventional and alternative sources of energy. It clarifies complex technical issues, enlivens history, and illuminates the policy dilemmas we face today. This revised edition includes new material on biofuels, an expanded section on sustainability and...

1. Are we on Easter Island? -- 2. Electricity and the utility industry -- 3. Biomass -- 4. Coal -- 5. The story of big oil -- 6. Oil -- 7. Natural gas -- 8. Nuclear and hydropower -- 9. Sustainable energy -- 10. Looking toward the future -- 11. An energy strategy.