Preface

This book is unique in that, as far as the authors’ knowledge, it is the only basic comprehensive guide to solar energy and the potential use of solar powered technologies for sustainable development, primarily on a grass-roots level. The book provides an introduction to basic concepts of solar energy, describes the mechanisms and benefits of related technologies, and suggests potential uses on a practical level by examining case studies. Detailed economic feasibility studies are presented in this book to encourage the implementation of sustainable technologies in the field of solar energy and help communities, especially in the Arab world, live a more sustainable life. The focus on the Arab world in this book stems from the noticeable changes in the environmental and political climates there which provide a great opportunity for the harnessing of renewable energy.

This book strikes a balance between simplicity and comprehensiveness in the fact that although no specialty background knowledge is needed to read it yet it offers broad understanding of solar energy and its applications.

The urgency of exploring alternative energy sources, especially in a region so detrimentally affected by current energy practices on environmental, humanitarian and political levels makes this book a crucial element in raising awareness and activism in the field.