Urban Energy Systems: An Integrated Approach

by Keirstead; James

• ISBN13: 9780415529020
• ISBN10: 0415529026
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Nonspecific Binding
• Copyright: 2013-04-02
• Publisher: Routledge

Summary

Cities are home to over half of the world's population, with millions attracted by the economic and social opportunities of urban life. But urban lifestyles demand reliable and sustainable energy services to heat and cool our buildings, to power our homes and offices, and to transport ourselves and our goods. Urban Energy Systemslooks at the technical and social systems that satisfy these service demands and asks how they might be provided more sustainably. Adopting a holistic approach, this book describes urban energy systems as complex interconnected systems. It shows how cities have evolved from consuming locally available fuels to centres of global energy networks with significant environmental impacts. New building and transportation technologies offer significant potential for improvement but only if technologies, demands and institutions are analysed in an integrated manner. Drawing on analytical tools and case studies developed at Imperial College London, the book presents state-of-the-art techniques for examining urban energy systems as integrated systems of technologies, resources, and people. Urban Energy Systemsoffers a comprehensive introduction to the field. It will be valuable for students and researchers looking to understand how these important infrastructures will contribute to urban sustainability, as well as planners, engineers, policymakers and other experts who wish to learn more about innovative analytical techniques.