Unsustainable: The History and Politics of Green Energy

The book explores the history, politics, and economics of alternative energy, focusing on wind and solar as the most prominent and government-subsidized energies. It examines the nature and efficacy of renewable subsidies, the employment of federal and state tax codes to encourage renewables, the lobbies and interest groups that campaign for government support, and the fierce battles over the siting of renewable facilities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 195 pages
Publication date: 21 August 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate history, politics, and economics of alternative energy, shedding light on the global efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels since the energy crisis of the 1970s. In the twenty-first century, the urgency of this pursuit has intensified, fueled by the looming threat of climate change. As a result, ambitious state-level renewable portfolio standards, enhanced federal incentives, and even "100% renewable" electrical generation targets have been established in states like Vermont and Hawaii. The ultimate goal is to save our planet from the catastrophic consequences of fossil fuel use.

However, the road to a renewable energy future is not without its challenges. The book begins by examining the Carter administration's synthetic fuels program, providing valuable insights into the early stages of alternative energy development. Subsequently, the focus shifts to two of the most prominent and government-subsidized "green" and "renewable" energies today: wind and solar. Given wind's remarkable progress and contentious nature, it receives the most attention in the book. While the primary focus is on the American experience with renewable energy, the policies and politics of renewables in Scotland, Wales, Denmark, Spain, and other European nations are also explored.

Issues examined in the book include the nature and effectiveness of renewable subsidies, the use of federal and state tax codes to encourage renewables, the influence of lobbies and interest groups advocating for government support, and the fierce debates surrounding the siting of renewable facilities. Unlike other works on this subject, the book delves deeply into the opposition to wind and solar, both in terms of siting and their perceived worthiness as recipients of substantial government assistance.

The book also raises important questions about the long-term viability and sustainability of alternative energy sources. It explores the potential environmental impacts of renewable technologies, such as wind and solar, and the challenges associated with their widespread adoption. It examines the economic implications of transitioning to a renewable energy economy, including job creation, investment opportunities, and the potential for energy independence.

Furthermore, the book sheds light on the role of government policies and regulations in shaping the development of alternative energy. It discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by international agreements and treaties, such as the Paris Agreement on climate change, and the role of governments in promoting renewable energy adoption and mitigating climate change.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of the history, politics, and economics of alternative energy. It offers valuable insights into the global efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate the impacts of climate change. By exploring the nature and efficacy of renewable subsidies, the employment of tax codes to encourage renewables, the influence of lobbies and interest groups, and the fierce battles over renewable facility siting, the book sheds light on the complex challenges and opportunities facing the renewable energy sector. It serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, industry professionals, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the future of energy.

Weight: 320g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030789039
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021