Energy Management: An Overview

In general, the concept of energy refers to "the potential for causing changes." Production and consumption of energy resources in very important to the global economy. All economic activity requires energy resources. Whether to manufacture goods, provide transportation, run computers and other machines or to grow food, to feed workers, or even to harvest new fuel. Organizations need to manage and optimize their energy usage well and in the process. Make sure that the environment is not impacted negatively. Waste management recycling of resources, renewable sources of energy, non-toxic wastes, etc are rising concerns for business houses. These concerns have become part and parcel of business management, either due to legal pressures or to attain efficiency and remain competitive. The energy business is on steroids. One needs a whole new vocabulary even to discuss it. The market is experiencing "convergence." Utility companies are "energy providers" and they provide "energy solutions." The end of the regulated, vertically organized and monopolized energy environment kicked off a megawatt transition-and technology is a key player in the outcome. From fuel cells to "smart" appliances, energy technology raises high expectations and attracts high rollers, who look for high payoffs. But, as always, there are high science, engineering and technology challenges to meet before you get the brass ring. This book discusses energy, its different sources, energy management for optimum utilization, environmental issues and cases regarding the same.