Our Energy Future Socioeconomic Implications and Policy Options for Rural America

Rapid changes in energy production and consumption are having major socioeconomic implications for the communities of rural America. Technological developments in horizontal drilling, hydraulic fracturing (fracking) nuclear energy, biofuels, wind and solar energy have significantly increased domestic energy production and the production of energy from renewable sources has encouraged energy efficiency. Yet, severe concerns persist and policy decisions on energy issues will have profound implications for all Americans and rural communities where consequences are experienced most directly. Thus, the time is appropriate for a careful exploration of the socioeconomic implications of our energy future. The purpose of this book is to present timely and scientifically sound information on energy policy, socioeconomic aspects of energy production and consumption with a focus on rural areas. The book presents the latest research by top scholars with the goal of clarifying options and providing the basis for informed policy decisions.

1. U.S. Energy Production and Consumption: An Overview 2. Economic Implications of Unconventional Fossil Fuel Production 3. Confronting an Uncertain Future: How U.S. Communities are Responding to Shale Gas and Oil Development 4. Climate Change, Energy and Agriculture: Interrelationships and Possible Policy Approaches 5. Socio-Economic Implications of Nuclear Power on Rural Communities 6. Socioeconomic Issues and Biofuel Energy 7. Renewable Energy in the United States: Trends, Prospects, and Implications for Rural Development 8. Rural Energy Use and the Challenges for Energy Conservation and Efficiency

Don Albrecht, PhD, is Director of the Western Rural Development Center and Associate Director of the National Agricultural and Rural Development Policy Center (NARDeP). Dr Albrecht has extensive research experience and numerous publications on issues confronting rural America. He has worked closely with policy makers and other leaders on approaches to address these issues.