on the planes so far, It goes well but the book is surprisingly short
it sort of reads like an extended new york times article, especially
since the most of the highlights (like micro particles, mercury
pollution, the miners problems) are covered in NYT. Also, it feels
like an article because the book is up-to-date -- there are citations
from 2006.

Well, he attributes human character traits to states. And you are a
malcontent. We should give the guy credit for fleshing out big coal's
relation to Bush' administration and giving the "big picture" (in
anecdotes if you will) of the industry. I liked how the US energy
companies came out as slugging mastodons, set in their ways, eager to
bully and bribe to preserve the status quo; even though more efficient
technologies are either available or relatively easily found (what
was that four-letter unpronounceable acronym technology that Hitler
used?). I liked how the railroads, due to being the chokepoint between
mines and powerplants are able to appropriate the greater share of the
surplus value (pardon my French). I liked how the old (and dirty)
coal-firing plants are the most profitable as the owners have recouped
their capital investments. Hence, resistance to close them down.

His investigation into "early days" of the industry where
what's-his-name(?) successor of Edison (Ipkins?) structured the
utilities to induce Americans to consume more electric power (big
power plants, flat rates). It is somewhat unconvincing although
interesting. I don't want a small power plant in my backyard. And it
does not seem to be all that difficult to switch to variable rates. At
least the guy should be given credit for trying to investigate it.

I agree, Kioto chapter is weak.  Moral dilemmas and calls for "tough
choices" that permeate the rump part of the book are silly.