The Future of Electrical Energy

?The 27 papers in this volume are revised from their 1984 conference form to include concerns raised by questioners. If New York State's electrical power problems are taken as fair microcosms of the national picture, many instructive patterns emerge. After a bland 40 years where real costs declined as demand grew, the scene today is a battleground of rising fuel and capital costs, nuclear fears, endless regulatory disputes, uncertain future demand projections, cogeneration, wheeling, and international competition. The sponsors were Cornell University and the New York Power Authority. The authors are highly qualified. Topics covered include electrical demand, forecasts, prices; alternative electrical supply plans--emerging technology; environmental and health effects of power generation; public perceptions of the electric utility industry; financial environment; institutional and regulatory constraints. Many useful tables, bibliographies, and a comprehensive index are provided, as well as a biographical review of the 33 authors. Recommended for serious students of energy trends at all levels above high school.?-Choice