A component in the America's Energy Future study, Electricity from Renewable Resources examines the technical potential for electric power generation with alternative sources such as wind, solar-photovoltaic, geothermal, solar-thermal, hydroelectric, and other renewable sources. The book focuses on those renewable sources that show the most promise for initial commercial deployment within 10 years and will lead to a substantial impact on the U.S. energy system. A quantitative characterization of technologies, this book lays out expectations of costs, performance, and impacts, as well as barriers and research and development needs. In addition to a principal focus on renewable energy technologies for power generation, the book addresses the challenges of incorporating such technologies into the power grid, as well as potential improvements in the national electricity grid that could enable better and more extensive utilization of wind, solar-thermal, solar photovoltaics, and other renewable technologies.
The generation of electricity by wind energy has the potential to reduce environmental impacts caused by the use of fossil fuels. Although the use of wind energy to generate electricity is increasing rapidly in the United States, government guidance to help communities and developers evaluate and plan proposed wind-energy projects is lacking. Environmental Impacts of Wind-Energy Projects offers an analysis of the environmental benefits and drawbacks of wind energy, along with an evaluation guide to aid decision-making about projects. It includes a case study of the mid-Atlantic highlands, a mountainous area that spans parts of West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. This book will inform policy makers at the federal, state, and local levels.
In today's automated world, the need for economic generation of power is of vital importance. However, the industry is commonly perceived as being responsible for pollution of the atmosphere and contamination of land and water. The wide-ranging subjects addressed in this book will contribute to the public understanding of science in this important area. Encompassing areas as diverse as current performance standards and the use of nuclear fuel, Environmental Impact of Power Generation also includes an historical overview of electricity supply. The emotive issues of air pollution and the ecological effects of overhead power lines are tackled, along with energy efficiency and conservation. This book will be essential reading for students and practitioners in environmental science and engineering.
Welcome to the world of electric generators—a realm where science, engineering, and innovation converge to provide us with an essential source of power. In "Generating Power: A Comprehensive Guide to Electric Generators," we embark on a journey through the intricate workings, diverse types, and practical applications of these remarkable machines. In an age where our lives are intricately woven with technology and electricity, understanding the principles behind electric generators becomes increasingly important. Whether it's lighting up our homes, propelling industrial machinery, or ensuring critical facilities remain operational during emergencies, electric generators play a pivotal role in our modern existence. This comprehensive guide is designed to unravel the complexities surrounding electric generators, catering to readers ranging from enthusiastic beginners to seasoned professionals. We'll delve deep into the fundamental principles of electromagnetism, the heart of generator operation. From Faraday's pioneering discoveries to the advanced electromagnetic theories shaping today's cutting-edge designs, we'll trace the evolution of electric generators. But this guide is more than just theoretical discourse. We'll explore various types of generators, from the classic and dependable synchronous generators to the efficient and versatile asynchronous generators. You'll learn how different fuel sources, such as gasoline, diesel, natural gas, and renewables, impact generator design and performance. As we venture further, we'll unravel the intricacies of generator sizing, paralleling, and synchronization—a critical aspect for industries reliant on continuous power. The guide will offer practical insights into selecting the right generator for specific applications, ensuring optimal performance, and minimizing downtime. Safety is paramount when dealing with generators, and a dedicated section will provide indispensable guidelines for safe installation, operation, and maintenance. Understanding potential hazards, implementing preventive measures, and adhering to industry standards are crucial for both personal and operational safety. In times of crisis, electric generators stand as lifelines, ensuring essential services are maintained when the grid falters. Our guide will equip you with the knowledge to set up backup power systems effectively, enabling you to weather storms, outages, and unforeseen emergencies. "Generating Power: A Comprehensive Guide to Electric Generators" is more than a mere compilation of facts—it's an exploration of human ingenuity, a celebration of scientific progress, and a roadmap for harnessing one of nature's most fundamental forces. Whether you're an aspiring engineer, a homeowner seeking reliable backup power, or simply a curious mind intrigued by the mechanics behind the flick of a switch, this guide promises to enlighten, educate, and empower. So, join us as we unravel the mysteries, debunk the myths, and demystify the world of electric generators. Together, we'll illuminate the path toward a more informed and electrifying future.
