“This book recounts the work of Dr. Allan Hoffman, who first took an interest in energy issues as a young assistant professor of physics at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, with a PhD in low temperature solid state physics from Brown University. In addition to providing a summary of programs in renewable energy in the U.S. and internationally, it presents very accessible summaries of the technologies under development in the field. Perhaps more importantly, this thin volume provides a rare look at the role a scientist can play in developing programs in R&D, including the challenges and frustrations of working for the federal government. It should be of particular value to physics students considering careers in government agencies since it highlights both the available rewards and the numerous challenges. Hoffman writes with unusual honesty and presents an unvarnished and unique view of the work that a dedicated physicist can do in developing programs and promoting research on new and needed technologies. I strongly recommend it to all physicists and especially to those interested in influencing policy in support of new technologies and younger people interested in applying their physics training to making national policy.”
~The Forum on Physics and Society, American Physical Society
“Hoffman’s The U.S. Government & Renewable Energy contains a distillation of the events he witnessed while serving under five U.S. Presidents (Carter, Bush Sr, Clinton, Bush Jr, and Obama). He explains how the various renewable energy sources work and the challenges that must be overcome before they could be adopted. Hoffman’s predictions of ‘where we will be energy-wise in the next 30-40 years’ may prove accurate. However, the real value of this book is the insider’s perspective it gives on how America has adopted energy policies. Drawing from his decades of experience, Hoffman calls for the adoption of a clear U.S. energy policy that transcends political ideologies.”
~The EcoReport
“Hoffman played a substantial role in the development of a wide variety of renewable energy technologies over the past 40 years, while employed at the U.S. Senate, the National Academy of Sciences, and the DOE. Much can be learned by examining the failures as well as the successes. Hoffman tells us what needs to be done for a gentle landing on sustainable technologies with a smart grid. This is an important and necessary path for the nation and the planet.”
~Emeritus Professor David Hafemeister, California Polytechnic State University, USA, and Author of Physics of Societal Issues
“I always had great admiration for those in government who were able to establish programs for the advancement of renewable energy (RE). This is especially true for people in the U.S. government (USG), which was highly influenced by the fossil fuel and nuclear energy industries. Allan R. Hoffman was one of these USG officials who led this effort for many years. He now presents us with this interesting and informative book that describes how RE programs were first formulated and then traveled through a winding road in the USG.”
~Dr. Peter F. Varadi, Co-founder of Solarex Corporation
“Dr. Allan Hoffman presents a unique personal record of the US energy policy development during four decades. He is one of the top driving forces in this progress and conveys a fascinating description of the successes and disappointments from the inside of the federal government. Earlier than most people, he recognized the potential of renewable energy. He has also been a pioneer in comprehending the water–energy linkage. For anybody who wishes to understand how technology relates to politics, this book is a must-read.”
~Prof. Gustaf Olsson, Lund University, Sweden