Renewable energy has enjoyed relatively good - and sometimes extraordinary - growth in recent years, in particular photovoltaics and wind; but it will be difficult to sustain such rates of diffusion on a global basis. A more complete transition to renewable energy is required on a demanding timescale set by climate change and fossil fuel depletion. This book analyses strategies for promoting renewable energy within the context of a rapid energy transition, using case studies from different countries over the past 30 years. Having described the global context in detail, covering oil and gas depletion, climate change, third world development and the potential for renewable energy, the authors evaluate support mechanisms at national and international levels, offering readers a clear understanding of the regulatory framework and an opportunity to promote renewable energy effectively. This book offers energy policy makers, renewable energy professionals, energy consultants and students a platform for development and an invaluable research text. Contributing authors include: Jorg Schindler and Werner Zittel, Ludwig Bohlkow-Systemtechnik, Germany; Ian Rowlands, University of Waterloo, Canada; Giulio Volpi, WWF Europe; Kristian Hvitfelt Nielsen, Aarhus University, Denmark; Staffan Jacobsson, Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden; Peter Connor, University of Warwick, UK; Ole Langniss, Centre of Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany; Ryan Wiser, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, US; David Elliott, The Open University, UK; and Frede Hvelplund, Aalborg University, Denmark

Long characterized by stability--even rigidity--Austrian politics is becoming more dynamic and combative. Tracing the disruption of the "postwar pattern" in Austria, this book explores the recent dramatic evolution in Austria's political system. The contributors examine the decline of the established Social Democratic and Conservative parties and c

* At a time when decisionmakers are considering how best to support renewable energy, this book examines the regulatory framework, providing a platform for development and an invaluable research text* The current global position is analyzed alongside the underlying renewable energy policies, using case studies from different countries over the past thirty years* International experts evaluate the data, outline prospects, and propose recommendations for uptake of renewable energy within a limited time frameRenewable energy has enjoyed relatively good growth in recent years, in particular photovoltaic (PV) and wind; but it will be difficult to sustain such rates of diffusion on a global basis. A more complete transition to renewable energy is required on a demanding timescale set by climate change and fossil fuel depletion. This book analyzes strategies for promoting renewable energy within the context of a rapid energy transition. Having described the global context in detail, covering oil and gas depletion, climate change, third world development, and the potential for renewable energy, the authors evaluate support mechanisms at national and international levels, offering readers a clear understanding of the regulatory framework and an opportunity to promote renewable energy effectively.The Contributors: Jorg Schindler and Werner Zittel, Ludwig Bohlkow-Systemtechnik, Germany, Ian Rowlands, University of Waterloo, Canada, Giulio Volpi, WWF Europe, Kristian Hvitfelt Nielsen, Aarhus University, Denmark, Staffan Jacobsson, Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, Peter Connor, University of Warwick, U.K., Ole Langniss, Centre of Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany, David Elliott, The Open University, U.K., Frede Hvelplund, Aalborg University, Denmark

Voluntary agreements in environmental policy-making are the subject of a fierce debate. Some claim it to be the panacea for failing environmental policy-making. Others see voluntary approaches as deregulation and as a further breakdown of the environmental state. This volume evaluates the practice of voluntary agreements in European countries, focusing on Austria, Denmark, and the Netherlands. It shows that both the design and the success of voluntary agreements strongly depend on specific circumstances, notably the national policy culture or style, the structure of the economic sectors involved, and the influence of the EU.