Research Topics:
Energy Resources, with respect to Development and the Environment;
Energy Alternative Applications; Resource Evaluation
Research Overview: My research has
focused on the transition toward sustainable energy resource utilization,
especially in Lower Income Countries. This includes identification
of the resources available and design of efficient utilization
strategies. A commonly overlooked reality is that the dependence
of many people in Lower Income Countries on fuelwood resources
not only limits their development options, but can contribute
substantially to deforestation. Locally produced oil and or natural
gas resources may reduce environmental stress, while providing
a viable transition energy resource. It is essential to understand
the extent of oil, gas, and forest resources in each region. Techniques
are studied for the gathering and presentation of resource data.
Research is required to plan a smoothly evolving energy mix for
the future that considers both the immediacy of environmental
impacts, and sustainability in the face of depleting resources.
Work is also done to evaluate energy consumption applications
and design for improved efficiencies.
