March 4, 2011

Rapid economic growth in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region has significantly increased energy demand, which has in turn lead to a greater focus on energy efficiency.  Rising construction costs in China, India, and Southeast Asia are also prompting developers and building owners to reinvest in and upgrade existing facilities as a more cost-effective approach to energy-efficient development.

Energy service companies (ESCOs) are working to meet increasing demand through energy-saving systems and comprehensive services adapted to their customers’ building facilities.  ESCOs analyze customers’ overall energy status, identify energy losses, and recommend optimized energy-saving solutions.  A recent report from Pike Research forecasts that the Asia Pacific ESCO industry is poised to reach $18.5 billion in annual revenue by 2015, a 421% increase from 2010 levels.

“Asia Pacific market players are driving the commitment to energy conservation,” says Pike Research senior analyst Andy Bae.  “The goal is to optimize the operation of mechanical and electrical systems so that they benefit all parties involved, including building owners, operators, occupants, and the environment.”

This commitment faces numerous challenges, however.  There is a widespread lack of knowledge, organization, and even awareness of the need for increased energy efficiency.  Financing options can range from being complicated to nonexistent.  There is also a lack of available or appropriate energy-saving technologies, along with an immature market for R&D investment.  Despite these challenges, Pike Research forecasts considerable growth in the Asia Pacific ESCO industry.

Bae sees China as the primary growth engine for this region’s ESCO market over the next several years.  Despite not even being operational until 1998, Pike Research projects annual revenues for China’s ESCO industry to reach $17 billion by 2015, increasing its share of the APAC regional market to over 90%. 

Pike Research’s report, “Energy Efficient Buildings:  Asia Pacific” analyzes market issues and opportunities related to energy efficiency solutions for commercial buildings in the Asia Pacific region.  The report examines the role of energy service companies, performance contracting business models, the economics and financing structures behind energy efficiency retrofits, and key green building trends.  Market forecasts are provided through 2015, and key industry players are profiled in depth.  An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the firm’s website.

Pike Research is a market research and consulting firm that provides in-depth analysis of global clean technology markets.  The company’s research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of the Smart Energy, Smart Grid, Smart Transportation, Smart Industry, and Smart Buildings sectors. For more information, visit www.pikeresearch.com or call +1.303.997.4619.