ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides all participants in a renewable energy project a detailed introduction on financing tools and structures including tax, accounting, legal, policy, regulatory, legislative and options for the acquisition of renewable energy systems in the United States. It provides an in-depth review of what the seven different renewable energy technologies are most often used in an energy project. The book introduces the historical legislative processes that have forged the industry including both federal and state law promulgations. It reviews some of the external components that need to be addressed, quantified, monetized and documented when the financial transaction is developed. The book examines in great detail the internal components of renewable energy project finance. It looks at the “hidden jewel” of energy project finance—energy efficiency.
