Small Scale Power Generation Handbook: Towards Distributed Energy Systems is a technological assessment of small-scale power in one reference, covering various technologies that can be applied to construct small power generation, each with their unique characteristics of operation, maintenance, control and integration within the grid. Addressing how conventional generation can be jointly and efficiently operated with renewable energy sources in small scale power sources, the specific peculiarities of small-scale power are considered in terms of performance, availability and reliability, all in relation to the current trend of incorporating small and distributed power plants using different energy sources and fuels. This book provides technological advances along with the critical issues and economic performance of small size power plants of all types in a single source, making it relevant for professionals involved in the design of small-scale power generation systems and those interested in current energy system design. Compares the advantages and weaknesses of small-scale power production with a focus on new challenges for grid integration Critically analyzes different technology issues surrounding operation, maintenance and control Includes small-scale power generation technology examples and global case studies

Provides an overview of various small scale sustainable energy technologies, with examples and a clear focus on technological and research issuesBeginning with an overview of the special characteristics, challenges, and opportunities of small scale power plants, this book goes on to provide detailed assessments of a wide variety of renewable energy generation technologies. Solar, biomass, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy generation are all addressed, with assessment of their performance, availability, reliability unique requirements for operation, maintenance, control, and grid integration.Combining technological advances with consideration of economic and application challenges, the Small Scale Power Generation Handbook is an essential resource for graduate students, academic researchers, and industry professionals involved in the design and integration of small scale power generation for sustainable systems. - Examines a range of cutting-edge renewable small scale generation systems, from photovoltaic to hydropower and bioenergy - Assesses the specific advantages and disadvantages of operation, maintenance, integration, and control alongside conventional grid - Applies technological insights to practical scenarios, case studies, and applications, supporting real-world improvements in sustainability and transition

A revolution is ongoing in the field of small-scale energy solutions, which can enable lower impact on the environment, more robust supply and self-determination. Solar power and other forms of renewable energy sources, which you can implement to generate your own electricity, are growing quickly. Electromobility is transforming the car industry and transportation systems and can also play a role in your energy system. Electricity can be used much more efficiently than before, for example by using LED light, variable speed motor drives and efficient home appliances. Smart controls are available, sometimes with free open source software. All this opens up tremendous opportunities for energy independence, which is the focus of this book. The book introduces the reader to a number of renewable energy sources, to different options for storing electricity and to smart use of electricity, particularly in the context of small isolated systems. This is important because many renewable energy sources are weather- and season-dependent and usually require storage and smart control, in order to obtain a system that is completely independent of the electricity grid. In the book, overall system design is explained, including how to combine different sources in a hybrid system. Different system sizes and architectures are also covered. A number of real cases are described, where homes, businesses and communities have achieved a high level of energy independence or are on their way to achieving it. This book will prove useful in university education in renewable energy at bachelor and master level, and also for companies and private individuals, who want to start or expand activities in the area of renewable energy.

Covers aspects of power generation from all known sources of energy that are in use around the globe. It contains power and energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, tidal and wave power, bio energy including bio-mass and bio-fuels, waste-material, geothermal, fossil, petroleum, gas and nuclear. Experts were also invited to cover the role of nano-technology and the role of NASA in photovoltaic and wind energy in power generation.

This book makes intelligible the wide range of electricity generating technologies available today, as well as some closely allied technologies such as energy storage. The book opens by setting the many power generation technologies in the context of global energy consumption, the development of the electricity generation industry and the economics involved in this sector. A series of chapters are each devoted to assessing the environmental and economic impact of a single technology, including conventional technologies, nuclear and renewable (such as solar, wind and hydropower). The technologies are presented in an easily digestible form.Different power generation technologies have different greenhouse gas emissions and the link between greenhouse gases and global warming is a highly topical environmental and political issue. With developed nations worldwide looking to reduce their emissions of carbon dioxide, it is becoming increasingly important to explore the effectiveness of a mix of energy generation technologies.Power Generation Technologies gives a clear, unbiased review and comparison of the different types of power generation technologies available. In the light of the Kyoto protocol and OSPAR updates, Power Generation Technologies will provide an invaluable reference text for power generation planners, facility managers, consultants, policy makers and economists, as well as students and lecturers of related Engineering courses.· Provides a unique comparison of a wide range of power generation technologies - conventional, nuclear and renewable· Describes the workings and environmental impact of each technology· Evaluates the economic viability of each different power generation system

Effects of environmental, economic, social, political and technical factors have led to the rapid deployment of various sources of renewable energy-based power generation. The incorporation of these generation technologies have led to the development of a broad array of new methods and tools to integrate this new form of generation into the power system network. This book, arranged into six sections, highlights various renewable energy based generation technologies, and consists a series of papers written by experts in their respective fields of specialization.The Handbook of Renewable Energy Technology will be of great practical benefit to professionals, scientists and researchers in the relevant industries, and will be of interest to those of the general public wanting to know more about renewable energy technologies.

To mark the UN Year of Energy in 2012, Practical Action is publishing some of its best practical briefings and case study material for the benefit of energy development practitioners around the world. Practical Answers 1 is the first in a new series of handbooks that provide guides on a variety of subjects for international development workers.