New Report on Small-Scale Distributed Generation Opportunities from Renewable Energy

Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "Small-scale Distributed Generation Opportunities from Renewable Energy" report to their offering.

The deployment of small-scale distributed generation technologies using renewable energy has two main benefits for the energy mix: reduction of carbon emissions and generation of energy close to the point of consumption; thus, reducing the need for investment in centralised power generation. Technologies are mostly well established and have seen strong growth recently, albeit from a low base. However, the challenges for the market to move to the next level relate to successful business models.

This study looks at the emergence of virtual power plant models as a key enabler for growth.

Three Big Predictions

• Virtual power plant business models will win within the next years. The deployment of smart technology and the development of micro-grids will be the key enablers.
• Distributed generation is poised to take off to a new level, especially in Europe. There is increasing focus on deployment of small-scale renewable energy close to the point of consumption. This will create opportunities for suppliers or micro-generation technologies and require new strategies and business models from power-gen companies and utilities.
• Micro-CHP technologies will grow the most quickly. Domestic renewable energy and renewable heating technology markets have underperformed, but the combination of heating with on-site power will resonate more strongly with a much higher proportion of the customer base.