This completely revised and updated edition of the best-selling handbook on conventional and alternative sources of energy includes new material on biofuels, an expanded section on sustainability and sustainable energy, and updated figures and tables throughout.

“A masterful compendium of current knowledge about the sources, distribution, and uses of energy in the world today. Without sacrificing accuracy or precision, Nersesian's distinctive voice clarifies complex technical issues, from geology to economics, enlivens history, from the formation of prehistoric peat bogs to the cloak and dagger of early oil exploration, and illuminates the policy dilemmas we face today, from waste management and climate change to economic development and renewable energy sources. There is no better single introduction to the full range of issues that will confront all of us—energy producers, consumers and policy-makers alike—in the coming decades." — Lisa Anderson, Dean, School of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University (*)

"We are fortunate to have this book. It would be important anytime in recent history, but it could not be more important than today. Businessman and educator Roy Nersesian paints a clear picture of an energy hungry world. It is an important immediate read and a critical, unbiased reference." — Paul G. Gaffney, II, President, Monmouth University; Vice Admiral, U.S. Navy (Ret.); Commissioner, U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy, 2000-04

“Provides an essential foundation to understand key aspects of energy systems and policy." — Shirley Neff, Columbia University; President and CEO, Association of Oil Pipe Lines, Washington D.C.; former Economist, U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee