January 26, 2010
Microgrids, which are “islanded” power generation and distribution zones that can operate autonomously from the larger electrical grid, are an increasing area of focus for institutions, governments, corporations, and utilities. According to a recent report from Pike Research, a variety of trends are converging to create significant growth potential for microgrids, and the cleantech market intelligence firm forecasts that more than 2,000 sites will be operational worldwide by 2015, up from fewer than 100 in 2010.
“The distinguishing feature of a microgrid is the ability to separate and isolate itself from the utility’s distribution system during brownouts and blackouts,” says managing director Clint Wheelock. “This degree of localized control is compelling for many microgrid proponents during this time of increasing concern over grid reliability.”
Wheelock adds that a variety of Smart Grid technologies, more often employed for utility-scale grid automation projects, will also be used very effectively for microgrids. Pike Research segments the microgrid market into five major categories:
- Institutional/Campus Microgrids with a single owner, which are forecast to be the largest segment with 53% of deployments by 2015
- Commercial/Industrial Microgrids with multiple owners, which Pike Research expects will be the second largest category with 39% of deployments
- Community/Utility Microgrids, which are tied to the larger utility grid infrastructure
- Remote Off-Grid Systems, which will be increasingly common in developing countries
- Military Microgrids, which can support remote base operations without a fuel supply
Pike Research’s report, “Microgrids”, analyzes and forecasts five major segments of the emerging microgrid market. It also examines key technologies that are integral to microgrid deployments and assesses key players in the nascent industry ecosystem. Five-year forecasts provide quantification of the microgrid market opportunity in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. 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, Clean Transportation, Clean Industry, Corporate Sustainability, and Building Efficiency sectors. For more information, visit www.pikeresearch.com or call +1.303.997.7609.