Books


About the Science of Electricity Series

The books in The Science of Electricity Series are designed to inform the people about electrical power technologies. Here you will find accurate, unbiased, easy to read discussions of each technology. No degree required; these books are designed for readers with little or no technical background.

Each book explains the principles of electrical power technologies as simply as possible. Each technology is explained using ordinary English and chapters are written in a conversational style.

Features of the books include:
·   Clear explanations of each technology
·   Numerous diagrams, charts, and other illustrations
·   Answers to commonly asked questions
·   Solutions for minimizing environmental effects
·   Pros and cons of each technology
·   Frequent use of lists, tables, and summaries
·   Essential reference data

The books in The Science of Electricity series are excellent resources for students, legislators, and the general public.


Endorsements
“I now have a much better understanding of energy and electrical power. The book is easy to read and the examples make the points clear.”
                                    - Mayor Bob Armstrong, of Defiance Ohio

"The Science of Electricity Series is a marvelous resource for both the student and professional. The books are arranged in a logical fashion, discussing the fundamentals before applications in every possible sense. The writing style is extremely clear and all definitions are both accurate and explained well.

I was particularly taken with the chapter on solar power, in which the author displays a clear knowledge of several areas of science and technology. Indeed, I plan to recommend the section to my chemistry students.

Overall, this book is a great addition to the literature and deserves a place on the bookshelf of anyone interested in the current state and future of the electrical industry."
                                   - Simon Bott, Director of Undergraduate Affairs
                                    Department of Chemistry, University of Houston


General Categories of Energy Topics

Overview of Electrical Power
Hydro Power
Wind Power
Solar Power
Coal Power
Nuclear Power
Natural Gas and Other Hydrocarbons
Power Lines, Transmission, and Grids



Introductory Books on Electrical Power by Mark Fennell

Introduction to Electrical Power (paperback)
        
    Introduction to Electrical Power is the first volume in the series. This book explains the essential concepts behind electrical power, including power generation, electrical current, and basic circuitry.  

Readers will also learn of new discoveries in the fundamental nature of electrical power. These are significant discoveries which the author has made from his extensive research and analysis. These discoveries will not be found anywhere else!
Topics include: Energy, Power, Voltage, Current, Turbines, Generators, Batteries and Electrical Connections. These topics are fundamental concepts which apply to all books in the Series.
 
This book is designed for readers with little or no technical knowledge. Every concept is explained using simple language, a conversational style, detailed diagrams, and guided examples. This book is perfect for policy makers, students, and the general publi

Chapters include:
1. Basic Principles of Electrical Power
2. Operation of Turbines and Generator
3. Voltage, Current, and Power on the Atomic Scale
4. Alternating Power and Frequency
5. Voltage & Current Sine Wave Graph
6. Batteries
7. Resistance and Temperature
8. Electrical Connections
9. Primary Electrical Terms
10. Impedance and Reactance
    Appendix Material
    Index

Hydropower Books by Mark Fennell

Hydropower Explained Simply (paperback)
      This book discusses the most important concepts of hydropower. The book begins by explaining the basic concepts of hydropower, and showing the reader how hydropower works. The second chapter discusses dams and rivers. Related topics include reservoirs, spillways, and removal of debris.
The third chapter explains how to calculate the amount of power from a hydropower system, and offers essential hydropower calculations for any situation.


      
The fourth chapter provides an overview of micro-hydro systems, with some practical tips for those readers who are considering installing such a system. Micro-hydro systems are growing in popularity world-wide, serving individual homes and small communities. This chapter provides an overview of factors to consider when installing your micro-hydro system.
      The final chapter discusses turbines in detail. Whether you are building a micro-hydro system or a megawatt power plant, it is important to choose the proper turbine for your particular situation. In addition, some of these turbines are used in other types of power systems, such as coal or natural gas.
  Note that paperback edition is a combination of all previously published e-books on hydropower, plus much more. This edition also has many more illustrations and tables than in any of the previously published e-books on this topic.

Hydropower Basic Concepts (including MicroHydro)
        Hydroelectric power is simple, environmentally friendly, and provides many side benefits. This book offers basic understanding and practical tips to make the most out of hydropower systems.
        Unique to this book is the series of equations: any equation you may need to calculate the amount of power produced from your hydropower system. The book also provides practical tips on micro-hydro systems for those readers who are considering installing microhydro.

Turbines for Hydropower
        Using a more efficient turbine will create more electricity. Whether you are building a micro-hydro system or a megawatt power plant, it is important to choose the proper turbine for your particular situation. This book explains the operation of each of the most commonly used turbines and discusses the pros and cons of each.


Wind Power and Solar Power Books by Mark Fennell

Wind Power Technologies Explained Simply (paperback)
https://www.createspace.com/3957117

        This book explains all the important technology and practical tips related to wind power. Here you will learn everything you need to know to design, select, and install a wind turbine for your specific needs.
       Wind Power Technologies Explained Simply is designed as: an overview for decision-makers at all levels, a practical guide do-it-yourself types, and an easy read for curious citizens. This book will also be a valuable reference work for students entering the growing workforce in wind power technologies, including the areas of design, manufacturing, and installation of wind turbines.


        The first chapter explains all the basic concepts of wind power, including a discussion of the factors which affect the amount of power produced.
        The second chapter discusses several practical details when installing wind turbines. Topics include placement, height, orientation, storms, durability, and bird strikes. This chapter also discusses what to do when there is no wind.
        The third chapter discusses blade design. Topics include blade shape, number of blades, angle of attack, tip speed ratio, and basic aerodynamics. This chapter also discusses methods for calculating wind power from measured data.
        The fourth chapter discusses offshore wind turbines. Topics include: storm resistance, placement of undersea cables, shipping lanes, and visual obstruction of turbines.
        The final chapter explains additional wind power terms and concepts. Some of the concepts include: camber, lift force, stall, cut-out speed, and Reynolds Number.
        
*Note that this paperback edition includes information previously published in e-books on this topic plus much more, including additional details and additional illustrations.


Solar Power Technologies Explained Simply (paperback)
          Solar Power Technologies Explained Simply is a practical and easy-to-read resource for anyone interested in Solar Power. This book discusses everything you need to know about solar power systems and solar cell technologies. There are three major parts to this book:
            1. Overview of Solar Power Technologies
            2. Practical Considerations when Installing Solar Cells
            3. Advanced Solar Cell Technologies.

 

     The first part provides an overview of solar cell technologies. Topics include the basic process of solar cells, processes which limit the efficiency of solar cells, and key terminology. This part of the book also provides an overview of practical issues to consider when using solar power.
      The second part of the book discusses all of the most important practical considerations when installing a solar power device. Topics include: Electronic Design Choices, Sizing the Array, Orientation, Tilt Angle, and Maintenance.
        
      The third major part of this book discusses the most important advanced solar cell technologies. Topics include the reasons for low efficiency in a solar cell, and the basic methods for improving efficiency.

       Subsequent topics include: thin films, anti-reflective coatings, surface texturing, minority carriers, solar concentrators, and stacking.
 
       This book also provides extensive data tables, including:
·   tilt angle guidelines based on region and season
·   energy required to excite the materials of most solar cells
·   several other data tables and illustrations
 
        Note that this paperback edition is a combination of all previously published e-books on solar power, plus much more. This edition also has many more illustrations and tables than in any of the previously published e-books.

Wind Power Technology Explained Simply (ebook)
         Wind power is one of the most popular forms of power generation today. This book explains all the important technology and practical tips related to wind power.
         If you want to install wind power you will want to read this book. Includes: factors affecting the amount of power produced, placement, height, orientation, storms, durability, and bird strikes. Also blade design, blade shape, and calculating wind power. Special sections on offshore wind turbines: storm resistance, placement of undersea cables, shipping lanes, and visual obstruction of turbines.

Solar Power Basic Concepts (ebook)
         This book provides an overview of solar cell technologies. Topics include the basic process of solar cells, processes which limit the efficiency of solar cells, and key terminology. This book also provides an overview of practical issues to consider when using solar power.

Practical Considerations of Solar Power (ebook)
         This book discusses all of the most important practical considerations when installing a solar power device. Topics include: Electronic Design Choices, Sizing the Array, Orientation, Tilt Angle, and Maintenance.
          If you are considering installing a solar array, then you need read this book. It provides with overviews, practical points, options to consider, and calculations. In this one resource I have provided everything you need to know in order to choose, install, and use your new solar array system.

Advanced Solar Cell Technologies (ebook)
         The efficiency of a typical solar cell is only 15%. If we are to improve the efficiency we must find a way to engineer around the unwanted processes.  This book discusses the most important of the advanced solar cell technologies, including thin films, anti-reflective coatings, surface texturing, minority carriers, solar concentrators, stacking, and other advanced technologies.
 

Coal Power Books by Mark Fennell
 
Coal Power Technologies Explained Simply (paperback)
https://www.createspace.com/4007151
         In 2005 I embarked on a quest to separate truth from fiction for all aspects of coal power. This book is the summation of my journey. Here you will find accurate, unbiased answers to all your questions regarding coal power technologies.
 
      Major topic areas of the book include Coal Mining Operations, Mining Safety, Operation of Coal Power Plants, Environmental Effects, and Clean Coal Technologies.
       In addition, this book also has information which is not found in any other book, journal, or website. Some of this information includes:

       1. Mining Safety: The latest mining safety techniques from experts in West Virginia and Kentucky. This includes techniques to reduce Black Lung which are not yet known to the highest levels of the Mine Safety Health Administration.

           
           2. Temperature Data: You have heard about global warming - now see some actual temperature data. You will find temperature data here that you will not find in other books.

 
           3. Mercury Emissions: The science of mercury emissions from coal power plants has only recently been studied. The data is also scattered. This is the first book which collects all the latest science behind mercury emissions and mercury capture.
 
            4. Global Temperature: An entire chapter is devoted to the issue of coal power and environmental temperature. This is a complex topic, with many factors. In this book you will find a clear explanation of each factor, combined with a chemical engineer's analysis of each.
 
            5. This book also explains the information very clearly. There are many scientific concepts. There are many concepts related to chemistry, physics, and biology. All of these concepts are explained very clearly, so that any reader will be able to understand, regardless of background.
            *Note that this paperback edition is a combination of all previously published e-books on coal power. This book also contains additional details and illustrations not found in any of the previously published e-books on this topic.

 
Formation and Mining of Coal (ebook)
            This book discusses the types of coal, how coal is formed, and the mining of coal. A significant section of this book is devoted to the health and safety of coal mining operations. Special note: This book has information on coal mine safety and reducing black lung not found in any other book or website!! The book also discusses reclamation of surface mines. Not even the Mine Safety Health Administration has this information!


Clean Coal Technologies (ebook)
        This book will answer all your questions regarding environmental effects from coal power, and provide discussions of the latest clean coal technologies. The first part of the book discusses emission types from coal power and the environmental hazards of each type. Emission types include sulfur, nitrogen, ash, carbon dioxide, and mercury.
        The book then explains how each clean coal technology works and the effectiveness of each. The Clean Coal Technologies discussed include: scrubbers, including Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD); Low NOx Burners; Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR); Circulating Fluidized Bed Combustion (CFBC); gasification; electrostatic precipitator; washing coal; and planting trees.

Mercury and Coal Power (ebook)
        The study of mercury emissions from coal power plants is relatively new. Data is scattered among various research organizations. Technology for mercury capture is currently being developed and tested. This book is the first book which gathers all the latest science of this topic in a single reference.
 

Nuclear Power Books by Mark Fennell

Nuclear Power Technologies Explained Simply
Nuclear Power Technologies Explained Simply is your one-stop resource for understanding everything related to Nuclear Power. This book is designed for citizens and policy-makers who want to become more fully informed regarding the science and technology of nuclear power.
All aspects of nuclear technology are explained simply enough for any reader to understand. At the same time, enough detail and data is provided for the reader to make intelligent decisions. The book also has numerous illustrations and data tables throughout.
 
Within this book you will find answers to all of your questions related to nuclear power, including:
·   How do nuclear power plants work?
·   What are the main components and design options of nuclear power plants?
·   What exactly happened at Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Japan?
·   How do we make nuclear power plants safer?
·   How dangerous is each type of radioactivity?
·   What do the units of radioactive decay mean?
·   How do we store nuclear waste safely for thousands of years?
 
and many other questions related to nuclear power.

In addition, this book provides extensive data tables related to nuclear power. This is the most comprehensive and complete collection of data related to nuclear power currently available.
Types of data include:
1. Complete list of radioactive isotopes. Specific data includes radioactive isotope, decay type, new atom created, and half-life. Note that this data was compiled from a variety of sources, making it the most comprehensive data table of radioisotopes currently available!
2. Complete list of half-lives for all radioactive isotopes, listed in order of decay time.
3. Decay sequences for multiple decay isotopes.
4. Melting points of nuclear fuel and fuel rods.
5. Dosage of absorbed radioactive decay and the resulting effect on human health.
6. Suggested Nuclear Standards from ANS and NRC
The extensive data alone is worth the price of the book.
In total, this book is the ultimate resource for citizens and decision makers on nuclear power technology.

 
Nuclear Power Plant Operations (ebook)
       This book explains the operation of nuclear power plants. The first part of the book provides an overview of the operation of nuclear power plants. The second part of the book explains how nuclear energy is produced, including the topics of nuclear fuel, fission, and chain reactions. The third part discusses the main types of nuclear power plants. The final part discusses the major components of nuclear power plants and the main design options available.

Nuclear Power Meltdowns and Explosions (ebook)
        As Japan has shown, nuclear disasters can happen at any time. Read this book to understand exactly how nuclear meltdowns and explosions occur. Understand the exact details of major nuclear power failures, including Three Mile Island and Chernobyl. Learn the possible solutions for preventing nuclear reactor incidents in the future.

Health Hazards of Radioactive Decay (ebook)
         Health Hazards of Radioactivity. Everything you need to know about Radioactive Decay and Health. Radioactive decay processes, penetration, shielding. Summaries of health dangers. Also relationships of energy levels and distance to safety and health.

Radiation Measurements (ebook)
         This book provides everything you need to know regarding radiation measurements. Complete data on dosage and biological effects. How to make sense of radiation data. Locating radioactive isotopes. Discussion of Geiger Counter, including how it works and limitations. Units of radiation measurements.

Processes of Radioactive Decay and Storage of Nuclear Waste (ebook)
         This book discusses the details of storing nuclear waste for long periods of time. Topics include the need for storage, the possible hazards of storage, and the necessary requirements in a long-term storage facility. We will also discuss the details of Yucca Mountain, including the geology, the location, and the repository itself. This book also discusses half-lives in context and subsequent radioactive processes.


Natural Gas Books by Mark Fennell

Natural Gas and Other Hydrocarbon Technologies Explained Simply (paperback)
https://www.createspace.com/4009353

       Natural Gas Technologies discusses everything you need to know about Natural Gas, including extraction, refining, transportation, and safety.
The information in this book will answer all questions you have regarding natural gas including:
       Where can natural gas be found?
       How do we extract and refine natural gas?
       What are the environmental effects of fracking?
       How can we minimize flammability and explosions?
       How do we maintain the pipeline system?
 
     This book also discusses other types of hydrocarbon fuels including diesel, biodiesel, and biomass.

 
Table of Contents:
1 Overview of Hydrocarbon Fuels
2 Overview of Natural Gas
3 Finding and Extracting Raw Natural Gas
4 Fracking Operations
5 Refining Natural Gas
6 Transporting and Storing Natural Gas
7 Other Hydrocarbon Energy Technologies
   Appendix
   Index

Natural Gas Basics (ebook)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004U7M3ZO
      This book explains the basic science of natural gas. We first begin by discussing the basic properties of natural gas and how natural gas is used to create electrical power. Then we provide an overview of locating natural gas and the steps required to use natural gas. We then discuss the hazards of natural gas and best methods for minimizing those hazards. Subsequent books will explain the processes for extracting, refining, and transporting natural gas.

Extracting and Refining Natural Gas (includes Fracking)  (ebook)
            This book discusses everything related to locating, extracting, and refining natural gas. The first chapters discuss where natural gas can be found and the methods for extracting the natural gas from each location. The book then discusses the process of fracking, including the environmental impact of fracking operations and the best methods to minimize environmental damage. The final chapter discusses the most common steps for refining natural gas so that it can be used as a source of energy.

Natural Gas Transportation, Storage, and Use (ebook)
            This book discusses how natural gas is delivered and stored after it has been refined. We discuss the three major types of natural gas pipeline systems: Gathering System, Transmission System, and Distribution System. We also discuss practical issues related to natural gas transportation such as the use of compressors and pipeline corrosion protection. We also discuss liquefied natural gas and the storage of natural gas.


Power Line and Grid Books by Mark Fennell
 Transmission of Electrical Power Explained Simply (paperback)
 
            Transmission of Electrical Power Explained Simply will inform you on everything you need to know regarding the transmission and distribution of electrical power. This book is also a "field guide", with numerous pictures, designed to help you identify components of the transmission system which are around you every day.
            In this book you will learn the sequence of events in the transmission of electrical power. You will also learn all options for the technologies for each step, with advantages and disadvantages of each technology.
            Note that these transmission technologies are important yet not discussed enough. We can save more power through effective transmission technologies than we can through simply “turning off the lights”. Did you know that in some regions of the world the transmission system is so inefficient that most of the power is lost before reaching the customer? Even in the US we lose significant power through improperly chosen transmission technologies. Therefore it is essential that policy makers understand the options.
 
        We must also consider weather hazards for lines above ground, and geological hazards for cables placed below ground. These are discussed fully in the book.
        As with all books in the series, this book is designed for readers with little or no technical knowledge. Every concept is explained using simple language, numerous illustrations, and guided examples. At the same time, this book discusses all factors and technologies in enough detail so that you can also use this book to design the best power transmission system for your needs.


 
Utility Operations and Grid Systems Explained Simply (paperback)
         Utilities and power grids may seem complex, yet this book will guide you easily through the mysteries.  In this book you will learn the basic operations of utilities and the basic operations of grids. You will learn how power is traded in the power markets.
 
  .
     Here you will learn how utilities and grids maintain quality control, including how they monitor the flow of power and how they make adjustments as needed. You will learn how power failures occur and how we can minimize power failures in the future.
      You will also learn a great deal about the future of power distribution, particularly in the areas of distributed generation and smart grids.
       No technical background is required; this book will explain everything you need to know about the operation of utilities and power grids in a way that any reader can understand.         
           

      This book is designed for policy-makers, community activists, and curious citizens. This book is also designed as an essential reference for energy technology students and for anyone working in the electrical power industry.
 
Introduction to the Transmission of Electrical Power (ebook)
       This book provides an overview of the transmission of electrical power. The primary topics of the book are the sequence of events from power plant to home, and the sequence of events from the final transformer through a home appliance. Other topics include transformers, power lines, substations, and types of wiring. A few specialized topics will be discussed such as transformer arrangements and the power requirements of large businesses.

Power Lines (ebook)
       This book explains all technologies and practical issues related to power lines. The first chapter provides an overview of issues related to power lines, including Right of Way and choosing the best material. This is followed by detailed discussions of materials to use in the wiring of a power line and the types of insulation. The second chapter discusses wire sizes in power lines. We discuss how to select the best size wire considering all factors. This chapter also explains the most common units for wire sizes.
        The third chapter discusses high voltage transmission lines, including the types of transmission lines, power loss, and whether to install above or below ground. The chapter also discusses in detail the transmission towers, including the structure of towers and the placement of the power lines.
         The fourth chapter discusses weather and power lines. Much of the chapter offers practical tips for ensuring that the towers resist storms and natural disasters. The fifth chapter discusses the safety of high voltage power lines, including the effect of electromagnetic fields on humans. The sixth chapter discusses the details of community level distribution lines, including types of distribution lines and maintenance.
         The final chapter discusses the relatively new technology of High Voltage DC Power Lines. These power lines can be efficient in certain circumstances, but will be less efficient if used improperly. This chapter explains how HVDC power lines work, and discusses where these power lines are most effectively used.

Underground Cables (ebook)
        This book discusses the technologies of underground electrical cables. The first chapter discusses the basic concepts. Topics include comparison of above ground vs. underground power lines, and where cables are most suitable.
         The second chapter is devoted to the relationship of geology and the placement of underground cables. The third chapter discusses advanced cable design and practical tips when laying cable. Topics include: choices for insulation, choices for cable jacket, tips for the direct bury method, and tips the for conduit method.

Utility Operations and Quality Control (ebook)
       This book explains the operation of utilities and the important factors of quality control when operating a utility company.
       The first chapter provides an overview of quality control for utilities. This chapter also discusses how to ensure that there is enough power to meet demand at any given time.
       The second chapter discusses how to ensure power is always transmitted effectively. The third chapter discusses how to re-start a power plant after a major shut down. This chapter also provides an overview of communication systems and an overview of grids.
       The fourth chapter discusses monitoring and communication systems. This chapter explains the SCADA system, discussing the components and how it works. This chapter also explains the types of translation devices and various options for communications.
       The remaining chapters discuss the specific factors affecting the quality of power. These factors are voltage, frequency, and temperature. Each of the remaining chapters describe the causes, effects, and protection against significant variations in each factor.

Power Grids Explained Simply (ebook)
(Available soon)
        This book explains the technologies and processes of grids. In this book you will learn everything about grid operations, power distribution, and reliability.
         The first chapter provides an overview of grids, including operations and limitations. Chapter two discusses the grid operators, including Independent System Operators (ISOs), Regional Transmission Organizations (RTOs) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
         Chapter three explains the sequence of grid operations, starting with the most basic and evolving to more complex. We also have a brief discussion on power marketing.
         Chapter four discusses the important concept of quality control of grids. We provide a list of the most important factors which will ensure quality control, and how the grid operators can manage those factors for optimum reliability.
         In chapter five we discuss the primary causes of grid failures and provide methods to reduce grid failures. We discuss the North American Electrical Reliability Council (NERC) and their work in ensuring reliability. We also discuss the threat of terrorist acts on grids.
         The final chapter discusses the future of electrical distribution. This chapter lays out the vision and the reasoning from energy experts regarding what is best for our energy future.