The 1997 Kyoto Conference defined CO2 emISSIOn targets for the developed regions of the world. The EU target of decreasing the emissions 8% below the 1990 level, by 2010, will require a very substantial effort covering basically all activities if such a target is to be reached. Energy-efficient motor systems can provide one of the most important opportunities to achieve electricity savings in a cost effective way, avoiding at the same time the emission of tens of millions of tons of carbon. The reduction of energy consumption through improvements in energy efficiency is one of the major instruments for developed and developing countries to meet the Kyoto commitments. Energy efficiency is also a key element of the European Union (EU) energy policy, since it improves the efficiency of the economy, increases energy supply security, and decreases harmful emissions due to electricity generation. Electric motor systems use over half of all electricity consumed in developed countries. Typically about 70% of the electricity which is used in the industrial sector and about 35% of the electricity used in the commercial sector in the EU is consumed by motor systems. In industry, a motor on average consumes an annual quantity of electricity which corresponds to approximately 5 times its purchase price, throughout its whole life of around 12 to 20 years.

This book constitutes the presentations made at the Advanced Research Workshop on Autonomous Robotic Systems, which was held at the University of Coimbra, Portugal, June 1997. The aim of the meeting was to bring together leading researchers in the area of autonomous systems for mobility and manipulation, and the aim of this book is to share the presentations with the reader. The book presents the most recent developments in the field. Topics include sensors and navigation in mobile robots, robot co-operation, telerobotics, legged robots, climbing robots and applications. Existing and emerging applications of autonomous syst ems are described in great detail, including applications in forestry, cleaning, mining, tertiary buildings, assistance to the elderly and handicapped, and surgery. The chapters are written in a structured and advanced tutorial style by leading specialists from Europe, Australia, Japan and USA. The style will allow the reader to grasp the state-of-the-art and research directions in the area of autonomous systems.

This text provides updated coverage of key topics involved in integrated resource planning (IRP), also called least-cost planning. IRP in comparison with conventional power can provide the same energy services at a lower societal cost and with reduced environmental impacts. The history and basics of IRP is presented. The link between IRP and the environment is characterized in terms of impacts and cost-effectiveness. The book also features detailed chapters on IRP modelling, energy-efficient technologies, and international experience, including Eastern Europe and developing countries. The book is intended for researchers, specialists and electric utility staff involved in energy planning, electricity conservation, demand-side management and environmental planning.