This book provides an overview of the dynamic issues of energy policy, development, and economics. It illuminates the factors influencing the energy policies of key energy producing/consuming nations around the world and examines current trends in energy development, planning, technology, and trade.

Energy Policy is a component of the Encyclopedia of Energy Sciences, Engineering and Technology Resources which is part of the global Encyclopedia of Life Support Systems (EOLSS), an integrated compendium of twenty one Encyclopedias. Energy policy addresses the economic, environmental, political, planning, and social aspects of energy supply and utilization that confront decision makers, corporate planners, managers, consultants, politicians, and researchers. Energy is of considerable importance given its strategic relevance as a raw material for industry, particularly energy intensive industries, for the quality of life, and for the creation of jobs. The level of energy prices is a critical factor in production costs and prices, and consequently has an important impact on government policy relating to sustainable economic growth, job creation, and prosperity. The book provides a background on the theory and application of policy as it relates to the energy sector, particularly with respect to market failures and potential policy remedies to the energy/ environment dilemma. This volume is aimed at the following five major target audiences: University and College Students, Educators, Professional Practitioners, Research Personnel and Policy Analysts, Managers, and Decision Makers and NGOs.