Rarely has the world's energy sector known such a complicated

and fragile environment as that being experienced in 2011. Energy

demand is increasing rapidly because of growth in the developing

countries. It is largely met by fossil fuels: oil, natural gas and coal, and

also by hydraulic and nuclear power.

The use of all these forms of energy now gives rise to controversy. A

year after the uncontrollable oil leaks from the Macondo well in the Gulf

of Mexico, the consequences of the accident are still being debated. The

development of shale gas, currently the source of half natural gas production

in the United States, meets strong opposition in a number of

European countries. Even more serious, the accident at Fukushima has

put into question the future development of nuclear power, particularly

in Europe but also in the USA. There is considerable criticism of the use

of coal, which is the source for most of the energy needs in China and

a number of developing countries, because of its emissions of CO₂ and

other pollutants. Even traditional biomass, whose use leads to deforestation

and to respiratory diseases, and the development of hydraulic

power are the subject of debate.

How should one judge between these different energies? How can decisions

be taken between reducing consumption and increasing production?

What is the future for new renewable energies?

These are the issues at stake on the energy sector.

This book appears just at the right time to provide clear and well documented

replies to the questions that all of us, as energy users, are posing.

How are the different forms of energy produced? What does the

future hold for them? Who are the players active in the energy scene?

What are the supply constraints? What is the impact of the strong

growth in India and China on energy resources?

The book is in two parts. The first sets out the major characteristics of

the energy sector. The second provides an analysis of the global energy

issues region by region and details the geopolitical aspects.

This work is well illustrated and accessible to all, as it does not require

any specific prior knowledge. It will particularly interest readers seeking

a global perspective of a sector that is fundamental both to our

economy and also for our international policies.