Alok Kumar and Sushanta K. Chatterjee
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- September 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198082279
- eISBN:
- 9780199082063
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198082279.003.0016
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
Protection of consumers’ interest is one of the key objectives of the Electricity Act, 2003 and it has been explicitly articulated in the preamble of the Act. The chapter explains in brief the ...
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Protection of consumers’ interest is one of the key objectives of the Electricity Act, 2003 and it has been explicitly articulated in the preamble of the Act. The chapter explains in brief the provisions of the Electricity Act and the policy regarding protection of consumers’ interest, for instance, universal service obligation, grievance handling mechanism, standards of performance, and consumer advocacy. Judicial pronouncements have also been relied upon to explain the context of some of these important provisions of the law and the policy.Less
Protection of consumers’ interest is one of the key objectives of the Electricity Act, 2003 and it has been explicitly articulated in the preamble of the Act. The chapter explains in brief the provisions of the Electricity Act and the policy regarding protection of consumers’ interest, for instance, universal service obligation, grievance handling mechanism, standards of performance, and consumer advocacy. Judicial pronouncements have also been relied upon to explain the context of some of these important provisions of the law and the policy.
W. Otto Friesen and Jonathon A. Friesen
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195371833
- eISBN:
- 9780199865178
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195371833.003.0016
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
This section provides a detailed description of the differential equations that underlie NeuroDynamix II simulations for the seven models. In addition, the rational behind some of these specific ...
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This section provides a detailed description of the differential equations that underlie NeuroDynamix II simulations for the seven models. In addition, the rational behind some of these specific equations is presented. This chapter describes the elementary equations, based on Ohm's law, for simple electrical circuits. Because there are no time-dependent variables, no numerical integration is required.Less
This section provides a detailed description of the differential equations that underlie NeuroDynamix II simulations for the seven models. In addition, the rational behind some of these specific equations is presented. This chapter describes the elementary equations, based on Ohm's law, for simple electrical circuits. Because there are no time-dependent variables, no numerical integration is required.
W. Otto Friesen and Jonathon A. Friesen
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195371833
- eISBN:
- 9780199865178
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195371833.003.0008
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
Section II provides an overview of each of the seven models simulated by NeuroDynamix II. Beginning with a brief introduction, each subsection describes one model, includes a glossary of variable and ...
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Section II provides an overview of each of the seven models simulated by NeuroDynamix II. Beginning with a brief introduction, each subsection describes one model, includes a glossary of variable and parameter names, and units for the variable and parameter values. Illustrations are included to provide assistance in conceptualizing the models and their implementation with NeuroDynamix II. The Electricity model simulates the properties of simple electrical circuits that include resistors, batteries, and capacitors. The experimenter can specify the number and value of components and then examine the consequences of applying known currents or known potentials to these circuits.Less
Section II provides an overview of each of the seven models simulated by NeuroDynamix II. Beginning with a brief introduction, each subsection describes one model, includes a glossary of variable and parameter names, and units for the variable and parameter values. Illustrations are included to provide assistance in conceptualizing the models and their implementation with NeuroDynamix II. The Electricity model simulates the properties of simple electrical circuits that include resistors, batteries, and capacitors. The experimenter can specify the number and value of components and then examine the consequences of applying known currents or known potentials to these circuits.
Edwin S. Gaustad
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780195305357
- eISBN:
- 9780199850662
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195305357.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, American History: early to 18th Century
The tenth and youngest son of a poor Boston soapmaker, Benjamin Franklin would rise to become, in Thomas Jefferson's words, “the greatest man and ornament of his age”. This book offers a portrait of ...
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The tenth and youngest son of a poor Boston soapmaker, Benjamin Franklin would rise to become, in Thomas Jefferson's words, “the greatest man and ornament of his age”. This book offers a portrait of this towering colonial figure, illuminating Franklin's character and personality. Here is truly one of the most extraordinary lives imaginable, a man who, with only two years of formal education, became a printer, publisher, postmaster, philosopher, world-class scientist and inventor, statesman, musician, and abolitionist. The book presents a chronological account of all these accomplishments, delightfully spiced with quotations from Franklin's own extensive writings. The book describes how the hardworking Franklin became at age twenty-four the most successful printer in Pennsylvania and how by forty-two, with the help of Poor Richard's Almanack, he had amassed enough wealth to retire from business. The book then follows Franklin's next brilliant career, as an inventor and scientist, examining his pioneering work on electricity and his inventions of the Franklin Stove, the lightning rod, and bifocals, as well as his mapping of the Gulf Stream, a major contribution to navigation. Lastly, the book covers Franklin's role as America's leading statesman, ranging from his years in England before the Revolutionary War to his time in France thereafter, highlighting his many contributions to the cause of liberty. Along the way, the book sheds light on Franklin's personal life, including his troubled relationship with his illegitimate son William, who remained a Loyalist during the Revolution, and Franklin's thoughts on such topics as religion and morality.Less
The tenth and youngest son of a poor Boston soapmaker, Benjamin Franklin would rise to become, in Thomas Jefferson's words, “the greatest man and ornament of his age”. This book offers a portrait of this towering colonial figure, illuminating Franklin's character and personality. Here is truly one of the most extraordinary lives imaginable, a man who, with only two years of formal education, became a printer, publisher, postmaster, philosopher, world-class scientist and inventor, statesman, musician, and abolitionist. The book presents a chronological account of all these accomplishments, delightfully spiced with quotations from Franklin's own extensive writings. The book describes how the hardworking Franklin became at age twenty-four the most successful printer in Pennsylvania and how by forty-two, with the help of Poor Richard's Almanack, he had amassed enough wealth to retire from business. The book then follows Franklin's next brilliant career, as an inventor and scientist, examining his pioneering work on electricity and his inventions of the Franklin Stove, the lightning rod, and bifocals, as well as his mapping of the Gulf Stream, a major contribution to navigation. Lastly, the book covers Franklin's role as America's leading statesman, ranging from his years in England before the Revolutionary War to his time in France thereafter, highlighting his many contributions to the cause of liberty. Along the way, the book sheds light on Franklin's personal life, including his troubled relationship with his illegitimate son William, who remained a Loyalist during the Revolution, and Franklin's thoughts on such topics as religion and morality.
Alok Kumar and Sushanta K. Chatterjee
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- September 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198082279
- eISBN:
- 9780199082063
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198082279.003.0001
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
This chapter deals with the evolution and key features of the Electricity Act, 2003. It also covers the two sets of amendments to the Act. The perspective that has gone into the making of the Act and ...
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This chapter deals with the evolution and key features of the Electricity Act, 2003. It also covers the two sets of amendments to the Act. The perspective that has gone into the making of the Act and various policies has been explained, while at the same time delving into the circumstances that have led to contemplation over and enactment of amendments to the Act. The Electricity Act, 2003, has repealed the three earlier Acts, namely, The Indian Electricity Act, 1910, The Electricity (Supply) Act, 1948, and the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act, 1998. This chapter traces the legal and policy changes over the decades and explains how the new law brings about a paradigm shift in the electricity sector in India. It also draws on some important pronouncements of the Supreme Court that are considered critical to understanding the import of various provisions of the new law.Less
This chapter deals with the evolution and key features of the Electricity Act, 2003. It also covers the two sets of amendments to the Act. The perspective that has gone into the making of the Act and various policies has been explained, while at the same time delving into the circumstances that have led to contemplation over and enactment of amendments to the Act. The Electricity Act, 2003, has repealed the three earlier Acts, namely, The Indian Electricity Act, 1910, The Electricity (Supply) Act, 1948, and the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act, 1998. This chapter traces the legal and policy changes over the decades and explains how the new law brings about a paradigm shift in the electricity sector in India. It also draws on some important pronouncements of the Supreme Court that are considered critical to understanding the import of various provisions of the new law.
Vaclav Smil
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780195168754
- eISBN:
- 9780199783601
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195168755.003.0001
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Economic History
Technical progress in the 20th century was based on the unprecedented technical advances that took place during the two pre-WWI generations (1867-1914). All of these fundamental and lasting ...
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Technical progress in the 20th century was based on the unprecedented technical advances that took place during the two pre-WWI generations (1867-1914). All of these fundamental and lasting inventions — most notably electricity generation, internal combustion engines, new materials, and new means of communication — had undergone major technical transformations that improved their performance, reliability, durability, and ease of use while lowering their cost. In addition, the century saw its share of new inventions and innovations, ranging from plastics to solid state electronics.Less
Technical progress in the 20th century was based on the unprecedented technical advances that took place during the two pre-WWI generations (1867-1914). All of these fundamental and lasting inventions — most notably electricity generation, internal combustion engines, new materials, and new means of communication — had undergone major technical transformations that improved their performance, reliability, durability, and ease of use while lowering their cost. In addition, the century saw its share of new inventions and innovations, ranging from plastics to solid state electronics.
Vaclav Smil
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780195168754
- eISBN:
- 9780199783601
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195168755.003.0002
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Economic History
Our civilization is based on massive consumption of fossil fuels. This chapter begins by examining technical advances of energy industries, before turning to energy transitions and the process of ...
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Our civilization is based on massive consumption of fossil fuels. This chapter begins by examining technical advances of energy industries, before turning to energy transitions and the process of decarbonization of global energy supply. The second section deals with electricity production in general, and with nuclear generation (as well as nuclear weapons) in particular. The last section traces the invention and deployment of the only two new prime movers introduced during the 20th century: gas turbines and rocket engines.Less
Our civilization is based on massive consumption of fossil fuels. This chapter begins by examining technical advances of energy industries, before turning to energy transitions and the process of decarbonization of global energy supply. The second section deals with electricity production in general, and with nuclear generation (as well as nuclear weapons) in particular. The last section traces the invention and deployment of the only two new prime movers introduced during the 20th century: gas turbines and rocket engines.
Alok Kumar and Sushanta K. Chatterjee
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- September 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198082279
- eISBN:
- 9780199082063
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198082279.003.0002
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
This chapter deals with broad aspects related to the implementation of the Electricity Act, 2003. It covers the various policies, namely, National Electricity Policy, Tariff Policy, and Rural ...
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This chapter deals with broad aspects related to the implementation of the Electricity Act, 2003. It covers the various policies, namely, National Electricity Policy, Tariff Policy, and Rural Electrification Policy conceived and framed under the provisions of the Act, and also analyses the issues around some of the provisions of these policies. It brings before the readers the implementation challenges facing the Act and the policies. Rules and statutory orders issued under the Act have also been covered in brief. This chapter goes on to introduce the readers about the broad contours of reforms as envisaged by the Act, for instance, competitive framework like open access, tariff-based competitive bidding, reorganization of State Electricity Boards (SEBs) and other major steps on the implementation of the Act.Less
This chapter deals with broad aspects related to the implementation of the Electricity Act, 2003. It covers the various policies, namely, National Electricity Policy, Tariff Policy, and Rural Electrification Policy conceived and framed under the provisions of the Act, and also analyses the issues around some of the provisions of these policies. It brings before the readers the implementation challenges facing the Act and the policies. Rules and statutory orders issued under the Act have also been covered in brief. This chapter goes on to introduce the readers about the broad contours of reforms as envisaged by the Act, for instance, competitive framework like open access, tariff-based competitive bidding, reorganization of State Electricity Boards (SEBs) and other major steps on the implementation of the Act.
Alok Kumar and Sushanta K. Chatterjee
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- September 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198082279
- eISBN:
- 9780199082063
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198082279.003.0003
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
This chapter traces the evolution of independent regulation in the electricity sector in India. It summarizes the legal provision regarding the Regulatory Commissions, explains the roles of the ...
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This chapter traces the evolution of independent regulation in the electricity sector in India. It summarizes the legal provision regarding the Regulatory Commissions, explains the roles of the Regulatory Commissions at the Centre and in the states and also of the Forum of Regulators (FOR) constituted for harmonization of the regulatory approach in the sector. While explaining the vision behind creation of Regulatory Commissions, a critique has been presented highlighting achievements and shortfalls of the electricity regulatory system in the country. The authors have thereafter drawn on their experience and suggested a way forward and the steps need to be taken to bridge the gap between the vision, expectation, and reality.Less
This chapter traces the evolution of independent regulation in the electricity sector in India. It summarizes the legal provision regarding the Regulatory Commissions, explains the roles of the Regulatory Commissions at the Centre and in the states and also of the Forum of Regulators (FOR) constituted for harmonization of the regulatory approach in the sector. While explaining the vision behind creation of Regulatory Commissions, a critique has been presented highlighting achievements and shortfalls of the electricity regulatory system in the country. The authors have thereafter drawn on their experience and suggested a way forward and the steps need to be taken to bridge the gap between the vision, expectation, and reality.
Alok Kumar and Sushanta Chatterjee
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- September 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198082279
- eISBN:
- 9780199082063
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198082279.001.0001
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
The book provides a comprehensive and critical discourse on the developments in the power sector since the enactment of the Electricity Act, 2003. It covers various important issues that have emerged ...
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The book provides a comprehensive and critical discourse on the developments in the power sector since the enactment of the Electricity Act, 2003. It covers various important issues that have emerged in course of implementation of the Act, provides insights into the major trends, and gives a critical assessment of various solutions being suggested. The book analyses the sector in terms of a historical perspective of reforms in the power sector; the paradigm shift in the strategy of reforms after the Electricity Act, 2003; the salient features that the new Act brought in; the key judicial pronouncements that have defined the scope of various aspects covered by the 2003 Act; the process of evolution of regulatory framework; a comprehensive treatment of tariff-based competitive bidding framework culminating in ultra mega power projects; new initiatives to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency; the gap between vision and reality in the sector and suggestions for the way ahead. While the initial chapters deal with the evolution of the Act, various rules, regulations, and policies, and an overview of the regulatory environment in the sector, the subsequent chapters provide a critique of major policy and regulatory aspects of different segments of the electricity industry. Each of the latter chapters introduces readers to the basic legal and policy framework on a particular aspect, followed by a brief description of contemporary developments and a critical assessment of possible solutions to unresolved issues.Less
The book provides a comprehensive and critical discourse on the developments in the power sector since the enactment of the Electricity Act, 2003. It covers various important issues that have emerged in course of implementation of the Act, provides insights into the major trends, and gives a critical assessment of various solutions being suggested. The book analyses the sector in terms of a historical perspective of reforms in the power sector; the paradigm shift in the strategy of reforms after the Electricity Act, 2003; the salient features that the new Act brought in; the key judicial pronouncements that have defined the scope of various aspects covered by the 2003 Act; the process of evolution of regulatory framework; a comprehensive treatment of tariff-based competitive bidding framework culminating in ultra mega power projects; new initiatives to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency; the gap between vision and reality in the sector and suggestions for the way ahead. While the initial chapters deal with the evolution of the Act, various rules, regulations, and policies, and an overview of the regulatory environment in the sector, the subsequent chapters provide a critique of major policy and regulatory aspects of different segments of the electricity industry. Each of the latter chapters introduces readers to the basic legal and policy framework on a particular aspect, followed by a brief description of contemporary developments and a critical assessment of possible solutions to unresolved issues.
Malanima Paolo, Astrid Kander, and Paul Warde
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691143620
- eISBN:
- 9781400848881
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691143620.003.0008
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Economic History
This chapter examines energy transitions in twentieth-century Europe. It begins with a discussion of the rise in energy consumption in the twentieth century and the breakthrough of oil and ...
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This chapter examines energy transitions in twentieth-century Europe. It begins with a discussion of the rise in energy consumption in the twentieth century and the breakthrough of oil and electricity. These developments display similarities and differences with the previous century, that of the first industrial revolution, where coal came to dominate the scene and released the economy from the constraints of the organic economy. As energy carriers, oil and electricity changed the relative positioning of European countries. The chapter proceeds by decomposing the energy consumption into the effects from population increase, income increase, and energy intensity changes. It also considers the new geography of energy supply, nuclear energy and other primary sources for electricity generation, drivers of carbon dioxide emissions, food consumption in the twentieth century, and higher quality of energy and higher efficiency in energy use.Less
This chapter examines energy transitions in twentieth-century Europe. It begins with a discussion of the rise in energy consumption in the twentieth century and the breakthrough of oil and electricity. These developments display similarities and differences with the previous century, that of the first industrial revolution, where coal came to dominate the scene and released the economy from the constraints of the organic economy. As energy carriers, oil and electricity changed the relative positioning of European countries. The chapter proceeds by decomposing the energy consumption into the effects from population increase, income increase, and energy intensity changes. It also considers the new geography of energy supply, nuclear energy and other primary sources for electricity generation, drivers of carbon dioxide emissions, food consumption in the twentieth century, and higher quality of energy and higher efficiency in energy use.
Alok Kumar and Sushanta K. Chatterjee
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- September 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198082279
- eISBN:
- 9780199082063
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198082279.003.0014
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
Restructuring of the electricity industry is one of the important interventions which the Electricity Act envisages for bringing about competition and ensuring efficiency in the operation of the ...
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Restructuring of the electricity industry is one of the important interventions which the Electricity Act envisages for bringing about competition and ensuring efficiency in the operation of the industry in the country. This chapter presents an overview of the restructuring system, discusses the status of unbundling of State Electricity Boards, and deals separately with the restructuring in generation, transmission, and distribution segments. The concept and issues around multiple distribution licensees in the same area of supply have been dealt with in this chapter. The vision of the Act in doing away with the single buyer model has been explained, and the present state of affairs in terms of implementation of this requirement has been examined with live examples from some states. The chapter reiterates the objectives of restructuring the electricity industry in terms of providing competition for the benefit of consumer, attracting private investment, and improving efficiency of operations. It also suggests the way forward for translating this vision of the Act into reality.Less
Restructuring of the electricity industry is one of the important interventions which the Electricity Act envisages for bringing about competition and ensuring efficiency in the operation of the industry in the country. This chapter presents an overview of the restructuring system, discusses the status of unbundling of State Electricity Boards, and deals separately with the restructuring in generation, transmission, and distribution segments. The concept and issues around multiple distribution licensees in the same area of supply have been dealt with in this chapter. The vision of the Act in doing away with the single buyer model has been explained, and the present state of affairs in terms of implementation of this requirement has been examined with live examples from some states. The chapter reiterates the objectives of restructuring the electricity industry in terms of providing competition for the benefit of consumer, attracting private investment, and improving efficiency of operations. It also suggests the way forward for translating this vision of the Act into reality.
Alok Kumar and Sushanta K. Chatterjee
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- September 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198082279
- eISBN:
- 9780199082063
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198082279.003.0006
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
This chapter covers the legal and policy provisions about the short-term electricity markets in India. It presents the status of implementation of these provisions. Drawing on the data and statistics ...
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This chapter covers the legal and policy provisions about the short-term electricity markets in India. It presents the status of implementation of these provisions. Drawing on the data and statistics available, primarily with the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), it describes various constituents of the short-term market, namely, traders, power exchanges, and the Unscheduled Interchange (UI). The chapter then analyses the issues regarding the role and impact of the electricity market. It deals with the UI mechanism in detail which is a unique intervention for handling the real time imbalances and enforcing grid discipline in India. The chapter presents a critical analysis of the various decisions of the Central Commission in promoting short-term markets and specifically discusses issues around Over the Counter (OTC) market and power exchanges. It also briefly touches upon the jurisdictional issues between the power sector regulator, namely, CERC and the forward contract regulator, namely, Forward Market Commission (FMC)Less
This chapter covers the legal and policy provisions about the short-term electricity markets in India. It presents the status of implementation of these provisions. Drawing on the data and statistics available, primarily with the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), it describes various constituents of the short-term market, namely, traders, power exchanges, and the Unscheduled Interchange (UI). The chapter then analyses the issues regarding the role and impact of the electricity market. It deals with the UI mechanism in detail which is a unique intervention for handling the real time imbalances and enforcing grid discipline in India. The chapter presents a critical analysis of the various decisions of the Central Commission in promoting short-term markets and specifically discusses issues around Over the Counter (OTC) market and power exchanges. It also briefly touches upon the jurisdictional issues between the power sector regulator, namely, CERC and the forward contract regulator, namely, Forward Market Commission (FMC)
Vaclav Smil
- Published in print:
- 2017
- Published Online:
- January 2018
- ISBN:
- 9780262035774
- eISBN:
- 9780262338301
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- The MIT Press
- DOI:
- 10.7551/mitpress/9780262035774.001.0001
- Subject:
- Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Energy is the only universal currency; it is necessary for getting anything done. The conversion of energy on Earth ranges from terra-forming forces of plate tectonics to cumulative erosive effects ...
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Energy is the only universal currency; it is necessary for getting anything done. The conversion of energy on Earth ranges from terra-forming forces of plate tectonics to cumulative erosive effects of raindrops. Life on Earth depends on the photosynthetic conversion of solar energy into plant biomass. Humans have come to rely on many more energy flows—ranging from fossil fuels to photovoltaic generation of electricity—for their civilized existence. This book provides a comprehensive account of how energy has shaped society, from pre-agricultural foraging societies through today’s fossil fuel-driven civilization. Humans are the only species that can systematically harness energies outside their bodies, using the power of their intellect and an enormous variety of artifacts—from the simplest tools to internal combustion engines and nuclear reactors. The epochal transition to fossil fuels affected everything: agriculture, industry, transportation, weapons, communication, economics, urbanization, quality of life, politics, and the environment. This book describes humanity’s energy eras in panoramic and interdisciplinary fashion, offering readers a magisterial overview.Less
Energy is the only universal currency; it is necessary for getting anything done. The conversion of energy on Earth ranges from terra-forming forces of plate tectonics to cumulative erosive effects of raindrops. Life on Earth depends on the photosynthetic conversion of solar energy into plant biomass. Humans have come to rely on many more energy flows—ranging from fossil fuels to photovoltaic generation of electricity—for their civilized existence. This book provides a comprehensive account of how energy has shaped society, from pre-agricultural foraging societies through today’s fossil fuel-driven civilization. Humans are the only species that can systematically harness energies outside their bodies, using the power of their intellect and an enormous variety of artifacts—from the simplest tools to internal combustion engines and nuclear reactors. The epochal transition to fossil fuels affected everything: agriculture, industry, transportation, weapons, communication, economics, urbanization, quality of life, politics, and the environment. This book describes humanity’s energy eras in panoramic and interdisciplinary fashion, offering readers a magisterial overview.
I. Grattan-Guinness
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199231256
- eISBN:
- 9780191710803
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199231256.003.0003
- Subject:
- Mathematics, History of Mathematics
This chapter reviews the early works of William Thomson. Thomson began to publish exceptionally early, in 1841, while still in his late teens; and a steady stream of papers came from him thereafter. ...
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This chapter reviews the early works of William Thomson. Thomson began to publish exceptionally early, in 1841, while still in his late teens; and a steady stream of papers came from him thereafter. Most of them in the 1840s concerned heat diffusion, electricity, or magnetism, and related mathematical methods such as the Fourier series and potential theory. These papers manifest a procedure of working by analogy in which methods were taken from one topic and adapted for use in another one.Less
This chapter reviews the early works of William Thomson. Thomson began to publish exceptionally early, in 1841, while still in his late teens; and a steady stream of papers came from him thereafter. Most of them in the 1840s concerned heat diffusion, electricity, or magnetism, and related mathematical methods such as the Fourier series and potential theory. These papers manifest a procedure of working by analogy in which methods were taken from one topic and adapted for use in another one.
Andrew Needham
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691139067
- eISBN:
- 9781400852406
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691139067.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, American History: 20th Century
In 1940, Phoenix was a small, agricultural city of 65,000, and the Navajo Reservation was an open landscape of scattered sheepherders. Forty years later, Phoenix had blossomed into a metropolis of ...
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In 1940, Phoenix was a small, agricultural city of 65,000, and the Navajo Reservation was an open landscape of scattered sheepherders. Forty years later, Phoenix had blossomed into a metropolis of 1.5 million people and the territory of the Navajo Nation was home to two of the largest strip mines in the world. Five coal-burning power plants surrounded the reservation, generating electricity for export to Phoenix, Los Angeles, and other cities. Exploring the postwar developments of these two very different landscapes, this book tells the story of the far-reaching environmental and social inequalities of metropolitan growth, and the roots of the contemporary coal-fueled climate change crisis. The book explains how inexpensive electricity became a requirement for modern life in Phoenix—driving assembly lines and cooling the oppressive heat. Navajo officials initially hoped energy development would improve their lands too, but as ash piles marked their landscape, air pollution filled the skies, and almost half of Navajo households remained without electricity, many Navajos came to view power lines as a sign of their subordination in the Southwest. Drawing together urban, environmental, and Native American history, the book demonstrates how power lines created unequal connections between distant landscapes and how environmental changes associated with suburbanization reached far beyond the metropolitan frontier. The book also offers a new account of postwar inequality, arguing that residents of the metropolitan periphery suffered similar patterns of marginalization as those faced in America's inner cities. Telling how coal from Indian lands became the fuel of modernity in the Southwest, the book explores the dramatic effects that this energy system has had on the people and environment of the region.Less
In 1940, Phoenix was a small, agricultural city of 65,000, and the Navajo Reservation was an open landscape of scattered sheepherders. Forty years later, Phoenix had blossomed into a metropolis of 1.5 million people and the territory of the Navajo Nation was home to two of the largest strip mines in the world. Five coal-burning power plants surrounded the reservation, generating electricity for export to Phoenix, Los Angeles, and other cities. Exploring the postwar developments of these two very different landscapes, this book tells the story of the far-reaching environmental and social inequalities of metropolitan growth, and the roots of the contemporary coal-fueled climate change crisis. The book explains how inexpensive electricity became a requirement for modern life in Phoenix—driving assembly lines and cooling the oppressive heat. Navajo officials initially hoped energy development would improve their lands too, but as ash piles marked their landscape, air pollution filled the skies, and almost half of Navajo households remained without electricity, many Navajos came to view power lines as a sign of their subordination in the Southwest. Drawing together urban, environmental, and Native American history, the book demonstrates how power lines created unequal connections between distant landscapes and how environmental changes associated with suburbanization reached far beyond the metropolitan frontier. The book also offers a new account of postwar inequality, arguing that residents of the metropolitan periphery suffered similar patterns of marginalization as those faced in America's inner cities. Telling how coal from Indian lands became the fuel of modernity in the Southwest, the book explores the dramatic effects that this energy system has had on the people and environment of the region.
Louis T. Wells
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- May 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195310627
- eISBN:
- 9780199783847
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195310627.003.0008
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, International
With slow growth in home electricity markets, cheap money, and a go-go atmosphere, foreign investors responded eagerly to the new call of emerging markets. Assurances of property rights added to ...
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With slow growth in home electricity markets, cheap money, and a go-go atmosphere, foreign investors responded eagerly to the new call of emerging markets. Assurances of property rights added to investors' eagerness to undertake projects in risky places. On the other side, Indonesian officials were unprepared for the complexities of power negotiations and encountered pressure from the US government to sign deals that benefited US companies. Most importantly, the personal interests of some Indonesians overrode the good of the nation.Less
With slow growth in home electricity markets, cheap money, and a go-go atmosphere, foreign investors responded eagerly to the new call of emerging markets. Assurances of property rights added to investors' eagerness to undertake projects in risky places. On the other side, Indonesian officials were unprepared for the complexities of power negotiations and encountered pressure from the US government to sign deals that benefited US companies. Most importantly, the personal interests of some Indonesians overrode the good of the nation.
Louis T. Wells
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- May 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195310627
- eISBN:
- 9780199783847
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195310627.003.0009
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, International
With US government help, the second contender for Paiton I would strike a deal that promised huge profits and few risks. Lacking the kind of technological edge that protected ITT, investors would ...
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With US government help, the second contender for Paiton I would strike a deal that promised huge profits and few risks. Lacking the kind of technological edge that protected ITT, investors would include influential domestic parties and add a set of defenses based on the new international property rights. They would ensure themselves access to international arbitration and encourage future backing from the US and Japanese governments should trouble arise.Less
With US government help, the second contender for Paiton I would strike a deal that promised huge profits and few risks. Lacking the kind of technological edge that protected ITT, investors would include influential domestic parties and add a set of defenses based on the new international property rights. They would ensure themselves access to international arbitration and encourage future backing from the US and Japanese governments should trouble arise.
C. U. M. Smith, Eugenio Frixione, Stanley Finger, and William Clower
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- September 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780199766499
- eISBN:
- 9780199950263
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199766499.003.0013
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, History of Neuroscience
This chapter studies the early history of electricity and explains how it helped prepare the electric fish experiments that showed that some living organisms can generate and release electricity. ...
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This chapter studies the early history of electricity and explains how it helped prepare the electric fish experiments that showed that some living organisms can generate and release electricity. This became a landmark development that opened more minds to the possibility that humans function electrically. It shows how electricity became one of the most stimulating branches of experimental natural philosophy during the middle of the 18th century. It then connects this development to new technologies and events. This chapter also discusses Benjamin Franklin and his introduction to electricity, plant electricity, medical electricity, atmospheric electricity, and the obsession with invisible forces.Less
This chapter studies the early history of electricity and explains how it helped prepare the electric fish experiments that showed that some living organisms can generate and release electricity. This became a landmark development that opened more minds to the possibility that humans function electrically. It shows how electricity became one of the most stimulating branches of experimental natural philosophy during the middle of the 18th century. It then connects this development to new technologies and events. This chapter also discusses Benjamin Franklin and his introduction to electricity, plant electricity, medical electricity, atmospheric electricity, and the obsession with invisible forces.
Christine Folch
- Published in print:
- 2019
- Published Online:
- May 2020
- ISBN:
- 9780691186603
- eISBN:
- 9780691197524
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691186603.001.0001
- Subject:
- Anthropology, Social and Cultural Anthropology
This book is a ground-breaking investigation of the world's largest power plant and the ways the energy we use shapes politics and economics. Itaipu Binational Hydroelectric Dam straddles the Paraná ...
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This book is a ground-breaking investigation of the world's largest power plant and the ways the energy we use shapes politics and economics. Itaipu Binational Hydroelectric Dam straddles the Paraná River border that divides the two countries that equally co-own the dam, Brazil and Paraguay. It generates the carbon-free electricity that powers industry in both the giant of South America and one of the smallest economies of the region. The book reveals how Paraguayans harness the dam to engineer wealth, power, and sovereignty, demonstrating how energy capture influences social structures. During the dam's construction under the right-wing military government of Alfredo Stroessner and later during the leftist presidency of liberation theologian Fernando Lugo, the dam became central to debates about development, governance, and prosperity. Dams not only change landscapes; the book asserts that the properties of water, transmuted by dams, change states. It argues that the dam converts water into electricity and money to produce hydropolitics through its physical infrastructure, the financial liquidity of energy monies, and the international legal agreements managing transboundary water resources between Brazil and Paraguay, and their neighbors Argentina, Bolivia, and Uruguay. Looking at the fraught political discussions about the future of the world's single largest producer of renewable energy, the book explores how this massive public works project touches the lives of all who are linked to it.Less
This book is a ground-breaking investigation of the world's largest power plant and the ways the energy we use shapes politics and economics. Itaipu Binational Hydroelectric Dam straddles the Paraná River border that divides the two countries that equally co-own the dam, Brazil and Paraguay. It generates the carbon-free electricity that powers industry in both the giant of South America and one of the smallest economies of the region. The book reveals how Paraguayans harness the dam to engineer wealth, power, and sovereignty, demonstrating how energy capture influences social structures. During the dam's construction under the right-wing military government of Alfredo Stroessner and later during the leftist presidency of liberation theologian Fernando Lugo, the dam became central to debates about development, governance, and prosperity. Dams not only change landscapes; the book asserts that the properties of water, transmuted by dams, change states. It argues that the dam converts water into electricity and money to produce hydropolitics through its physical infrastructure, the financial liquidity of energy monies, and the international legal agreements managing transboundary water resources between Brazil and Paraguay, and their neighbors Argentina, Bolivia, and Uruguay. Looking at the fraught political discussions about the future of the world's single largest producer of renewable energy, the book explores how this massive public works project touches the lives of all who are linked to it.
