Biofuel

The challenges of providing energy at a reasonable cost is something that is effecting every person. But how much do you know about fuels and where they come from? It was recently revealed in a Public Agenda’s Energy Learning Curve survey that 4 out of 10 Americans can’t name a fossil fuel! More than that, though, there was a clear majority who couldn’t name an alternative energy source. And Congress is getting ready to spend more of your hard earned tax dollars as they begin to tackle energy challenges and vote on Cap and Trade and the Administration considers the Copenhagen Climate Change Treaty.

As I thought about the facts above I realized that while there has been a tremendous amount of “ink” sacrificed to scientific and engineering studies, little had been written for the general public so they could understand the problem and potential solutions. Just as much “ink” has been splashed around by all sides of the political spectrum which has done nothing more than muddy the waters and make it impossible for you and I to see things clearly enough to make a rational decision. What we needed was a guide book of alternative energies without the political agenda written at a level of clear understanding without the scientific jargon. It has arrived.

Alternative Energy For Dummies is a bit different than most in the Dummies series but that’s good. It was written to inform you without hyperbole or demagoguery. Plain language speaks to the pros and cons of the different forms of alternative energy, not just biofuels.

This plain-English guide clearly explains the popular forms of alternative energy that you can use in your home, your car, and more. Separating myth from fact, this resource explores the current fossil fuel conundrum, the benefits of alternatives, and the energy of the future, such as hydrogen and fuel cell technology.

The ABCs of alternative energy — what it is, how it works, and what the real costs are

Take the first step — see how energy efficiency and conservation can reduce your reliance on fossil fuels

Grasp the alternatives — from nuclear power to geothermal energy to wood burning, understand the benefits that alternative energy can have on the nation

Apply alternative fuels to transportation — from biofuels to exotic propulsion to electricity, see how they are best used and how hybrid, all-electric, and fuel cell–powered vehicles work

Get a peek into the future — see what the outlook holds for each form of alternative energy discussed

When you open the book you will find:

The pros and cons of alternative energy

A review of the current world energy economy

The problems with fossil fuels, from smog to global warming

Advantages of alternative energy

Practical results of alternatives you can use in daily life

Guidelines for investing in alternative energy vehicles

Ten ways you can bring about change right now

Insight into the future of energy production — and how you can invest in it

Alternative Energy For Dummies covers all of these topics while being an easy read and is very affordable. This book truly surprised me. The author did a great job of explaining the pros and cons of flex fuel, bio-diesel, and other alternative fuel cars as well as the environmental, political, and social impact. If you’re looking for a thoughtful and intelligent look at the current state of alternative energy and biofuels this is a good place to start.