Technology ´89: power and energy

Significant developments during 1988 are reviewed. Growing demand for electrical power in the US is motivating the use of technologies, such as high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) transmissions. Significant milestones were reached in so called clean-coal combustion technology, the use of batteries for storing energy for times of peak demand, and the efficient conversion of solar energy. Concerns for the earth´s climate and environment, particularly global warming, has meant a much-needed boost for projects to develop safer nuclear reactors. Plans to further utilize two of the world´s great hydro resources, the Amazon basin in Brazil and James Bay in Quebec, Canada, were advanced.<>