All energy sources affect the environment in which we live. While fossil fuels may essentially do more harm, renewable energy sources can also pose a threat to the environment. Allowing for the various renewable energy sources: solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and geothermal, Environmental Impacts of Renewable Energy examines the environmental effects of all available renewable or alternative sources, as they increasingly play a large part in our energy supply, and provides a counterargument about the benefits of renewable energy. This book discusses both the merits and the physical, mechanical, electrical, and environmental limitations of renewable sources of energy. It discusses the pros and cons of renewable energy, addresses environmental issues and concerns, and determines ways to avoid or minimize these impacts.
This text contains nine chapters reviewing in depth:
Environmental Impacts of Renewable Energy covers the adverse effects of major renewable energy sources. Environmental engineers working with renewable energy, environmental consultants/managers working with municipalities regarding environmental impact and land use, and undergraduate students taking related courses in environmental college programs can greatly benefit from this text.
Setting the Stage: The 411 on Energy Basics
Types of Energy
Energy Use in the United States
Renewable Energy: The Terrorism Factor
References and Recommended Reading
Wind Power: Where Eagles Don’t Dare
Wind Power Basics
Environmental Impacts of Wind Turbines
Wind Energy Construction Impacts
Wind Energy Operations Impacts
Impacts on Wildlife
Impacts on Human Health
Environmental Impacts of Power Transmission Lines
Energy Transmission Construction Impacts
Energy Transmission Operations Impacts
Wind Turbine Operations and Maintenance Personnel Safety
Wind Power: The Bottom Line
References and Recommended Reading
Icarus Revisited at Ivanpah
Energy from the Sun
Environmental Impacts of Solar Energy
Solar Energy Job Hazards
References and Recommended Reading
The Rachel River
Hydropower: Historical Perspective
Hydropower Basic Concepts
Advanced Hydropower Technology
Ecological Impacts of Hydropower
Biological Impacts of Flow Fluctuations
Low Water Levels and Evaporation of Reservoirs
Impacts on Human Health and Safety
Hydropower: The Bottom Line
References and Recommended Reading
Biomass for Biopower
Biomass for Bioproducts
Biogas (Methane CH)
Impacts of Biomass Construction, Production, and Operation
Human Health and Safety
Fatalities and Incidents
Biofuels: The Bottom Line
References and Recommended Reading
Geothermal Energy: The Basics
Geothermal Power Plant Technologies
Enhanced Geothermal Systems
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Environmental Impacts of Geothermal Power Development
Human Health and Safety
Geothermal Energy: The Bottom Line
References and Recommended Reading
Marine and Hydrokinetic Energy
Oceans and Their Margins
Ocean Tides, Currents, and Waves
Coastal Erosion, Transportation, and Deposition
Wave Energy Conversion Technology
Tidal Energy Technologies
Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion
Ocean Energy Conversion Process
Potential Environmental (General) Impacts
Toxic Effects of Chemicals
Potential Environmental-Specific Impacts
Hydrokinetic Energy Facility Construction Impacts
Hydrokinetic Energy Facility Operations and Maintenance
References and Recommended Reading
Introduction to Hydrogen Fuel Cells
How a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Works
Environmental Impacts of Fuel Cells
Properties of Hydrogen
References and Recommended Reading
Carbon Capture and Sequestration
Introduction to Carbon Capture and Sequestration
Terrestrial Carbon Sequestration
Geologic Carbon Sequestration
Potential Impacts of Terrestrial Sequestration
Potential Impacts of Geologic Sequestration
Human Health and Safety
References and Recommended Reading
Frank R. Spellman, PhD, is a retired assistant professor of environmental health at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia. The author of more than 90 books covering topics ranging from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) to all areas of environmental science and occupational health, he has been cited in more than 450 publications, and is a co-author to well-recognized experts in various scientific fields. For example, he is a contributing author of The Engineering Handbook, 2nd ed. Spellman holds a BA in public administration, a BS in business management, an MBA, and both an MS and a PhD in environmental engineering.
"… details the theoretical and practical aspects of the development and use of renewable energy… Spellman offers anecdotal sidelights and highlights hazards and safety measures; e.g., readers are warned that solar panels should never be carried by hand while climbing a ladder. … this book will serve as a resource for engineers, scientists, and indeed anyone interested in environmental studies."
—Choice, September 2015"This book encompasses all aspects of renewable energy. …Topics covered use real life examples, and start out with a historical perspective. …With renewable energy becoming so important due to rising energy costs, this book provides a go to resource for information for both safety professionals and management."
—Jennifer See, HRSD Safety ManagerAlthough geothermal energy has a proven history, environmental disruption remains a factor, and smaller and more versatile sources such as fuel cells may become widespread. Including basic definitions, tables, and diagrams, this book will serve as a resource for engineers, scientists, and indeed anyone interested in environmental studies.Summing Up: Recommended. All readers.
—R. M. Ferguson, emeritus, Eastern Connecticut State University , CHOICE"This book makes for very interesting reading and is well worth ownership."
— Energy Sources Part A, May 2016