Energy supplies, energy prices and energy politics are in the news again. In an era of cheap energy and steady supplies it was easy to forget the oil shocks of the 1970s. Few people remember the lines at gas stations, limits of 10 gallons and alternate-day purchasing. But those who forgot have recently gotten a rude awakening again. The U.S. is more dependent on imported oil than ever before; OPEC is not quite as powerful a force as it used to be. But how dependable are other sources these days for whatever reason.
All it takes is one million barrel a day production cutback or Mid-east turmoil, not to mention instability in Venezuela, pipeline problems in Russia and other disturbances down the distribution channels, for example, to send crude oil, gasoline, and even natural gas prices soaring. The yearly burden on the U.S. economy is in the tens of billions of dollars. The deregulation of the electric utilities has not helped. Instead of the promise of lower prices, the newly consolidated utilities pass their costs on to their customers. California of course is a shining example.
Based on BCC Inc.'s quarterly publication, energy, this anthology is a collection of exclusive articles on energy issues written by industry experts. Selection of these incisive analyses is guided by an editorial board comprised of some of eminent names in energy from industry, government, and academe. In addition, it contains important news in oil, gas and nuclear energy; energy policy, technology, company developments and more. Independent reviewers explore the latest books and other energy-related publications. This information-package provides important insights into the economics, politics and technology of energy.
The review covers
Energy Economics: Supply and demand, impact of regulations.
Exploration: Deep drilling, enhanced recovery, new fields.
Renewable Energy: Projects; plans for wind, solar, geothermal; waste to energy; biofuels.
Utilities: Deregulation, conservation programs, economics, rate base issues, regulations.
Conservation: Building design, alternative fuel vehicles, greenhouse impact.
Demand Side: What are consumer and industrial users doing; what are the issues?
A major consideration for energy markets, both near and long term, will be the availability of adequate natural gas supplies. 