ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the social projects of both conventional and sustainable energy. The critique explores the neglected issue of the political economy of energy, underscores the pattern of democratic failure in the evolution of modern energy, and considers the discursive continuities between the premises of conventional and sustainable energy futures. Among the outstanding techno-fixes for modern energy are those seeking to "green" the fossil fuels. Life extension projects for the conventional energy regime are not limited to technological "greening" of fossil fuels. Plans also include a revival of "Giant Power" strategies. It may bring about the decentralization of industry, the restoration of country life, and the upbuilding of families. From the energy provided by Green Fossil Fuels and Giant Power, to the utopian promises of Big Wind and Small-Is-Beautiful Solar, technical excellence powers modernist energy transitions. In sum, conventional and sustainable energy strategies are quiet about matters of concentration of wealth and privilege that are the legacy of energy capitalism.
