Energy Myths and Realities

Energy Myths and Realities: Bringing Science to the Energy Policy Debate (Vaclav Smil, 2008) debunks the most common fallacies to make way for a constructive, scientific approach to the global energy challenge. When will the world run out of oil? Should nuclear energy be adopted on a larger scale? Are ethanol and wind power viable sources of energy for the future? Vaclav Smil advises the public to be wary of exaggerated claims and impossible promises. The global energy transition will be prolonged and expensive—and hinges on the development of extensive new infrastructure. Established technologies and traditional energy sources are persistent and adaptable enough to see the world through that transition.