1 comments about Energy: A Beginner's Guide (Beginner's Guides).

1. This is an easy to follow guide for the beginner. You don't have to know calculus to follow the math. I daresay it could be a useful review for the more sophisticated reader.

No comments about Planning and Installing Photovoltaic Systems: A Guide for Installers, Architects and Engineers (Planning and Installing Series).

5 comments about The Problem of Increasing Human Energy.

1. I found this piece of writing and other non technical works by Tesla invaluable when doing essays on creative thinking and problem solving. Tesla was good at describing how he did his thinking.



2. Tesla was a brilliant though eccentric scientist and a trailblazing inventor. A fascinating read.



3. Science meets metaphysics. Groundbreaking, brilliant and rendered with precision and meticulous detail.



4. This is a very badly reproduced reprint of the article written by Tesla from Century Magazine. The entire document looks like a cheap photocopy and the contrast of the photographs makes them useless as a reference. The booklet contains ~38 pages of Tesla's musings which show him a man ahead of his time in 1900. The rest of the book (over 1/2) is a collection of "Mystical Drawings" also badly reproduced. Kessinger Publishing spared all expense in throwing this document together and did not give this visionary, his philosophies, nor his predictions the deserved treatments.
   
   Due to the poor quality of the text and photos, I give it a 1 but the author a 5+!



5. As I learn more about Tesla, I have come to realize that Edison and his supporters have done this genious a great wrong. Much of our electric comforts and wonders are founded in the aspiration of Tesla, not Edison. This book will provide insight to the depth of the man, but it alone can not encompass Tesla's true genious. I would recommend reading some background info on Tesla prior to develing into this work.

No comments about Energy and the Environment.

5 comments about Quest for Zero Point Energy Engineering Principles for Free Energy.

1. And the man just keeps getting better! If you are a researcher into the new energy technologies, DO YOURSELF A FAVOR and buy this book. Moray King will save you months of frustration and floundering around. BIG-BANG for the Buck!



2. I've bought most of the free energy books out there and would put this on my "top ten" list. Most books published on this topic are not technical or rational, or are all hype and offer little of substance. This book is a notable exception in the genre. Moray doesn't reach too far with outlandish conclusions, and therein lies his--and ultimately this book's--credibility. The text is technical in places, and uses terms that may confuse the layman, but a layman could also learn much, as the explanations are nonetheless surprisingly lucid. But be aware that the book is a compilation of technical papers, not a hold-your-hand, dumbed-down, super-rudimentary description.

   This book doesn't contain--as many of the naive expect from such books--detailed plans that will allow you to build a free energy motor, nor does it claim to. But it offers concise, referenced, well-edited explanations of an "ether" or "zero-point-energy" theory that is the conceptual backbone of free energy systems. Postulated operational principles of some of the more infamous free energy devices are also included.

   I don't usually write reviews, but I made an exception in this case because I am (very) tired of this genre being polluted by so many quacks. Free energy is credible, and possible, and this is one book that helps disseminate useful information on a topic of critical importance to humanity.




3. It is worth reading, along with T.E. Bearden's, Nikola Tesla, and John Bedini's work. The EM theory has many errors and if your a novice in this field and want some direction in how to approach the classical EM theory and understand where the problem areas exist. You will eventually understand the fundamental principles of extracting free energy from the vacuum and it's not as absurd as people would like for you to believe, in other words the world is definitely not flat. Go explore.



4. There is no such thing as "Zero Point Energy," nor is there "free" or "unlimited" energy.
   The claims made by this book are ridiculous.
   
   Perpetual energy, free energy, perpetual motion, etc., are all SCIENCE FICTION ideas which propose that energy is unlimited.
   
   Any physicist will say that energy is the ability to perform work AGAINST OR ALONG A FORCE.
   There are four forces: gravity, electro-magnetic, strong nuclear, and weak nuclear.
   Basically, the concept of "Zero Point Energy" or "free energy" would contradict all of them.
   
   There is a "theoretical" term called "vacuum" energy, which is the supposed "energy" of free space, but this isn't Zero, it's just a VERY LOW ENERGY STATE. It isn't free or renewable.



5. I am not against 'alternative' speculation.
   
   Terry Witt has written (Null Physics) a tome that proposes (can't say different as quantum theory is fog with numbers) a visually manageable way to view current observations in physics from quantum to relativity all in one formulation. Not it isn't 'One Theory for Dummies'. It is a deep deep and praiseworthy mathematical embodiment of real phenomena. Could be wrong. But that's OK. Maybe, if somehow missing a cog on a gear, it will evoke the better formulation in someone else's head. The point is that Terry's work is hugely evolved and argued stepwise through all facets of real world physics.
   
   This book, on the other hand, is like a bar room rant from somebody who better not have his keys to the car. All disconnected this's and that's. See? Huh? You see? See it? Do you? THEY don't want you to know this because THEY suck your brains or something. ???
   
   A good book to stop the patio table from rocking.

5 comments about The Bottomless Well: The Twilight of Fuel, the Virtue of Waste, and Why We Will Never Run Out of Energy.

1. Great idea, poorly executed. Writer makes way too many wild jumps without telling a compelling story, mixing high-level pronouncements with in-depth and overly-complicated science/math explanations. Underperforms



2. I thought Hard Green was a good enviro contrarian take. This one is not nearly as good.



3. Peter W. Huber and Mark P. Mills have written a powerful book about subtle concepts: heat, energy, power, and order. The book is a story of people's use of energy in increasingly clever, useful, and efficient ways to make life better for themselves and all who have followed and will follow them. The authors also make bold predictions. For example, they say that internal combustion engines will not disappear and, indeed, will actually multiply in coming decades.... Regarding these changes, which are already under way in the market, Huber and Mills declare, "The best thing U.S. policy makers can do is step out of the way and let the market find its own way to the extraordinary future that now beckons" (p. 76).
   
   The book offers many policy-relevant facts. For example, when a dilute form of energy, such as wind power or the solar energy striking rooftops, is made into better-ordered, more useful energy, the capital items needed for the transformation are often expensive. The total cost of the resulting energy supply reflects in part the costs of the energy inputs into making, transporting, installing, and repairing the equipment, as well as the cost of transporting power to where it is used (for example, constructing and maintaining power lines). When the raw energy is concentrated, these costs are usually much lower than when more machinery must be used to gather, convert, and transport the purer, better-ordered power to users. Forcing or subsidizing the use of more dispersed, more costly energy sources is neither energy efficient nor cost effective....
   
   A more energy-efficient method can reduce the energy consumption in a particular instance, but central planners often fail to recognize the even more efficient methods that might be employed in those circumstances. Those who bear the cost of energy (and energy-using devices), however, have an incentive to find better ways. Of course, more efficiency itself breeds innovative uses of the more efficient energy technology, and total energy use, summed over all uses, grows. More and better energy use, the authors point out in chapter after chapter, is making us more powerful and improving our environment in almost every way, and we are better off as a result....
   
   In "Saving the Planet with Coal and Uranium" (chapter 10), Huber and Mills argue cogently that the United States is leading the way back toward carbon balance by using and promoting land-efficient, fossil-fuel-using farming techniques that allow farm land to revert to forest, which sequesters carbon and becomes a carbon sink. They cite (controversial) evidence that expanding forests in North America are sequestering more carbon each year than is emitted here. They also observe: "Over the long term, societies that expand and improve their energy supplies overwhelm those that don't.... Civilization, like life, is a Sisyphean flight from chaos. The chaos will prevail in the end, but it is our mission to postpone that day for as long as we can and to push things in the opposite direction.... Energy isn't the problem. Energy is the solution" (p. xxvi).



4. Huber and Mills's argument in this book is basically summarized on p. 43:"...technologies of digital power...will redefine,yet again,how much energy we want and how much we can get.We will want more-much more.And we will get it easily.Unless,somehow,our optimism,drive,courage,and will give way to lethargy and fear ".
   This translates as the assertion that there are immense new scientific breakthroughs, just around the bend ,with respect to the generation and use of energy,in technology that will completely revolutionize the world.Unfortunately,these claims appear to be similar to the " cold fussion " claims made about 15 years ago and the claims made by Gary Winnick(Global Crossing) about the limitless,future growth of fiber optic cable applications.
   The claim that these solutions will be spontaneously generated in the near future are essentially based on nothing but additional claims and assertions.The best existing solution is the one offered at the turn of the century by Theodore Roosevelt-conservation and reduced energy consumption.



5. This book suffers from some gushing enthusiasm and at times seems like you are being presented a glorified power point presentation. That said I strongly encourage you to suffer through the initial "rah-rah" because once you get to the substance it is a very thoughtful and thought-inducing read.
   
   We live in a time, perhaps it has always been so, that arguments are usually decided within the first 20 to 30 words that a presenter delivers. Then, once someone has made up their mind on a subject they wont even listen to the first dozen words that are being delivered before they immediately evaluate the validity of the argument.
   
   This book will teach you about energy; what it actually means, its various forms and how we have throughout history increased its effectiveness. I do not mean in a scientific manner, I mean in a practical manner.
   
   Simply stated a ton of coal is less valuable than a tenth of a second of a precise laser burst aimed at a specific target. Yet in terms of energy there is 10,000 times more energy in the coal and in the process of creating the laser burst 99.9% of the energy was lost. But it wasn't lost, it is the necessary cost of creating the laser pulse; not because of inefficiencies or indifference on our part but it is inherent in the physical structure of the universe.
   
   Every negative review I have read of this book stated that they did not understand the basic premise of the authors, that they did not spend sufficient time and struggle to grasp what was said, but because the results of their argument did not support the preconception of the reviewer that the book was flawed.
   
   This is a thought provoking work and will change your perspectives. I strongly encourage everyone to read the book.

3 comments about Practical Photovoltaics: Electricity from Solar Cells.

1. Practical Photovoltaics is one of the finest, most comprehensive guides to the world of solar energy. The book starts with a beginer's course in solid state physical devices (which taught even an Electrical Engineer such as myself new things) and leads into the history of solar cell materials and procedures over the years. Next comes an in-depth discussion of the various types of materials, and how they are suited for different applications. He makes logical predictions about the future of some of these materials, and hints around at what new techniques scientists are starting to look at today.
   In the appendix, he even describes how to assemble your own array of solar cells for those who wish to try a hands-on approach to learning.
   Oh, yeah, one more thing: he has a decent list of recomended readings at the end of each chapter, allowing you to select topics that interest you to continue your reading.



2. I am becoming increasingly interested in photovoltaics. When purchasing this book I had already read two texts. It is an excellent immersion text that takes you beyond the elementals into the details of how it works, why, and how they are manufactured. After reading this text I feel a lot more comfortable discussing photovoltaic issues with professionals in the field, and I am actually able to contribute to the conversation. The only drawback is that the text is somewhat in need of updating.



3. I enjoyed reading this book as it provided some of the science behind photovoltaics as well as some advice on how to assemble your own home-made unit!
   
   While the book goes into some of physics behind all things related to solar energy (e.g. semiconductor physics, energy storage considerations, some basic circuitry, etc.), it's not so ridiculously technical that it becomes a cure for insomnia or a college textbook.
   
   I think I learned a lot from this book, and I personally can't wait to do one of these PV solutions on my own and do my best to be greener

5 comments about Hidden Nature: The Startling Insights of Viktor Schauberger.

1. As a publisher of mind-body-spirit books for 35 years, I felt that of all the books I had published, the 6 books on Viktor Schauberger's insights into Nature's workings were the most significant. However, when I realised that they appealed mainly to a more specialised audience, I decided to write Hidden Nature, to bring Schauberger's topical research up to date for a wider audience. I was part of the editorial team that published Rachel Carson's Silent Spring in 1962, and ever since have been campaiging against our society's violation of Nature.



2. An excellent book which covers all aspects of this extraordinary man's life and work. Essentiall it covers everything! Not too deep in technical detail but with such a wide scope, it does justice to the material. An excellent book for anyone interested in conservation and nature. Highly recommended!



3. Mr. Bartholomew, this is one of the greatest books I have ever read. I would say that it is the greatest if it wasn't for all the trinkets of truth that I have picked up reading countless other fat books and articles that have only touched what you fully expressed in the first 25 pages. It even looks lovely. I have not finished it yet, it just came in the post an hour or so ago this morning and I am up to page 25.
   
   I have flicked through all the numerous, delightful illustrations, which on their own are the eye in the needle through which an infinite thread of knowledge, purpose, love and spirituality can come through. Never have I ever felt so validated in such a decaying world. The so called greatest of philosophers seem like cowardly politicians next to Schauberger. Your book is a bright light that shines enabling us to see everything's true place. We are all blessed with the wonderful opportunity to be validated and empowered by Schauberger and face what I believe is humanity's darkest moment. I will get everyone to read this. You have done a wonderful job of making his work available to the public, through just the mere 25 pages I have read.



4. Viktor Schauberger's works are clearly synthesised into a hard ot put down volume encompasing earth energies, water, plants, soil, and free energy devices. A really big book - rewriting our known science texts. Open your mind and read it - i am sure it will challenge your notions of the world. A good primer for reading more of Schauberger's works.



5. I wish I would have discovered this book forty years ago (& 37 years before it was printed)- I do this New Age, holistic, alternative lifestyle stuff for a living & this book is far beyond anything I've ever encountered.
   
   How anyone can start out daydreaming on a riverbank & end up inventing a flying saucer travelling 1500 miles per hour with antigravity properties that broke through the roof of its manufacturing plant.
   
   And speaking of plants, Viktor's tree realizations and H2O's role on Earth is so different than anything ever conceived.
   
   And speaking of conceived, it is very straightforward to conclude that if Germany would have discovered Viktor Schauberger's gadgets sooner, Germany would have been viktorious in World War II.

No comments about Energy and the Environment (Mit-Pappalarado Series in Mechanical Engineering).

5 comments about Apollo's Fire: Igniting America's Clean Energy Economy.

1. I love Jay Inslee and I think he is a great politician, BUT, solving the global warming climate crises ISN'T Rocket Science! It is within our grasp today. American waste twice as much energy as Europeans to achieve the same lifestyle and per-capita GDP. That's just stupid. Fixing much of this is trivial: I bought CFLs, turn off the lights when not in the room, saved 50% on my electrical bill, and applied 10% of that savings to sign up for my electrical utilities "100% green" option to make sure my electricity is coming only from solar and windmills. And I saved myself money. That ISN'T Rocket Science. Rather it is common sense -- something that has been conspicuously absent from American Politics for the last 30 years! And for God's Sake Buy A Prius!



2. The thing I like about this book is that it was a great crossover book for both my boyfriend and I. I don't follow energy issues nearly as closely as he does. I need a book that isn't too dry and keeps my interest, but provides the information I need to come up to speed on solutions to global warming and energy independence. This book accomplishes that by relaying that information through personal stories of individuals throughout the country, and contrasting their efforts with national policy. At the same time, judging from my partner's perspective, he was very happy with the book providing him with the latest on this fast moving subject and offering insights into the best investment opportunities in the clean energy space. The book also had some interesting anecdotes about interactions with politicians like Bill Clinton.
   
   The only thing that I think can be considered a down side for the book is that it could have given the status of its policy proposals in Congress. However, I do recognize that doing this could make the whole book outdated when new laws are finally passed.
   
   I think I speak for my partner and I when I say that it was inspiring. Finally, a proposed solution (or plan at least) to this problem!



3. On page 188, Rep. Inslee states: "A wind turbine's output rises exponentially with the length of its blades." Actually, the relationship is not exponential; it is polynomial. If the relationship were exponential, it would be possible to connect several sequential wind turbines to create a perpetual motion machine.
   
   Rep. Inslee's home state of Washington has a math requirement for graduating high school students. This standard clearly states that high school graduates should understand the difference between exponential and polynomial relationships. Perhaps Rep. Inslee should repeat high school math before he expounds on "solutions" for the nations energy crisis.



4. Congressman Jay Inslee puts forth his view toward a solution to fuel prices and climate change. The field is rather crowded right now for books on this topic. Inslee approaches the angle of the economy and jobs more fully than his competitors. He remains more neutral on hydrogen, nuclear, and clean coal, while encouraging wind, solar, and tidal energy.
   
   Inslee puts forth Ten Energy Enlightenments.
   
   1. Opportunity Is Best Found in Crisis
   2. Boldness Is Required - Tinkering at the Edges Didn't Put a Man on the Moon
   3. We Must Reject the Tyranny of the Present
   4. There Are No Silver Bullets
   5. Everybody Needs to Get on the Bus
   6. If Government Sets the Road Signs, the Market Will Drive
   7. Failure Is an Option
   8. Prejudices Are Best Left at the Door
   9. Clean Energy Will Be Powered by New Politics
   10. No More Free Lunches
   
   "Failure Is an Option" is one that has been forgotten. As a nation it seems that fear of risk in the short-term is setting America up for absolute failure in the long-term. Like Apollo 13, failure is a necessary part of exploration.
   
   Inslee sizes up energy situation and climate change well, and does thorough descriptions of energy alternatives - solar, wind, biofuels, clean coal, nuclear, tidal. His description of the "Four Horsemen of the Energy Apocalypse" is memorable.
   
   1. Inertia - ideas can represent change in investments, policies and behavior. Inertia wears down efforts to change the status quo.
   
   2. Special interests
   
   3. Miasma of ideology - issues are viewed through an ideological prism rather than a scientific, pragmatic one.
   
   4. Fear - we cannot adopt policies that can succeed.
   
   I would add one more. Fashion. Once ideas sit for too long the media will migrate back to other things, such as Britney, Paris or Lindsay.



5. Clean, fairly priced, non monopolized energy sources and distribution are so important for the present and future. Lots of great ideas but why name the book after a pagan deity that with a simple wikipedia search reveals more than I wanted to know about Apollo as a demonic entity and his works. If you really wanted to get the message out, pull the title and rename it with out religious conitations (unless intentional). Please stop shooting yourself, and every one else who believes strongly in this issue, in the foot and lets get on with the task at hand.