Includes bibliographical references (p. 259-285) and index.

Introduction -- In the hothouse, beyond the peak : the logic of the urban energy revolution -- How to cope with Peak Oil by preparing for climate change -- Renewable geography -- Building the Renewable City : tools, trades, technology -- Renewable City buildings : guidance and learning -- Renewable City planning and action : guides for local government.

"Frequently the site of crisis or turmoil, individual cities can be fragile environments. For the first time in history, however, the future of the entire urban system is being thrown into doubt. Catastrophic climate changes threaten the life support of hundreds of millions, perhaps billions, or urban dwellers around the world. Supplies of fossil fuels, especially oil and natural gas, are declining worldwide. Modern cities not only depend on petroleum products for their power, but also for their goods and services - including the making and packaging of virtually all food. How might this precarious global condition be turned around? How can the energy infrastructure of cities, towns and rural settlements be restructured, to confront the environmental challenges of our time? Could a new, positive global vision emerge out of the impending, massive shift from unsustainable fuels to a renewable energy base?"--BOOK JACKET.