Modern energy systems give rise to the bulk of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants which threaten the environment. Energy has therefore become a central focus of debates on sustainable development. This book explains the fundamental aspects of the energy issue and suggests ways to achieve a more sustainable energy future. A leading team of writers describes the importance of energy within the sustainable development debate and outlines the historical and current patterns of energy use in Australia and internationally. The book also assesses the scope for energy conservation, explores the potential for renewable sources of energy, and analyses policy options for promoting more sustainable patterns of energy use. Finally it surveys the possibilities for energy reform in Australia. Sustainable Energy Systems presents the broad spectrum of debate to non-experts for the first time. It emphasises the urgent need to reform patterns of energy use in Australia and around the world if we are to live in an ecologically sustainable and humanly desirable future.