In this new edition of _RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS_, globally recognized renewable energy researcher and professor, Henrik Lund, sets forth a straightforward, comprehensive methodology for comparing different energy systems’ abilities to integrate fluctuating and intermittent renewable energy sources. The book does this by presenting an energy system analysis methodology and offering a freely available accompanying software tool, EnergyPLAN, which automates and simplifies the calculations supporting such a detailed comparative analysis. The book provides the results of more than fifteen comprehensive energy system analysis studies, examines the large-scale integration of renewable energy into the present system, and presents concrete design examples derived from a dozen renewable energy systems around the globe. _RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS, SECOND EDITION_ also undertakes the socio-political realities governing the implementation of renewable energy systems by introducing a theoretical framework approach aimed at understanding how major technological changes, such as renewable energy, can be implemented at both the national and international levels. * Provides an introduction to the technical design of renewable energy systems * Demonstrates how to analyze the feasibility and efficiency of large-scale systems to help implementers avoid costly trial and error * Addresses the socio-political challenge of implementing the shift to renewables * Free companion analysis software empowers energy professionals to crunch data for their own projects * Features a dozen extensive case studies from around the globe that provide real-world templates for new installations