This course examines the production and consumption of energy from a systems perspective.  Sustainability is examined by studying global and regional environmental impacts, economics, energy efficiency, consumption patterns and energy policy.  First, the physics of energy and energy accounting methods are introduced.  Next, the current energy system that encompasses resource extraction, conversion processes and end-uses are covered.  Responses to current challenges such as declining fossil fuels and climate change are then explored: unconventional fossil fuels, carbon sequestration, emerging technologies (e.g., renewable sources: biomass, wind, and photovoltaics; fuel cells) and end-use efficiency and conservation.

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