March 19, 2009

Global system revenues for sub-utility scale Renewable Distributed Energy Generation (RDEG) grew at a breakneck pace between 2007 and 2008, rising 76% to an estimated $29.9 billion at the end of 2008, according to a new report from Pike Research.  The cleantech market research firm forecasts that the RDEG market will continue strong growth in the coming years, more than doubling in value to $60.6 billion by 2013.

“Renewable distributed energy generation is a sector dominated by small solar energy installations,” says industry analyst David Link.  “Solar represents approximately 98% of the world market, with small wind power and stationary fuel cells each accounting for about 1%, a mix that we expect to remain constant during the next five years.”

In each country where RDEG technologies have established a foothold, the market is heavily reliant upon government subsidies, most often in the form of feed-in tariffs for solar installations.  However, says Link, this reliance will subside in the long term as system installed prices come down, and Pike Research forecasts that these costs will decline at a compound annual rate of -6% between 2008 and 2013.  “Dependence on solar energy subsidies will taper off in Europe during the next 3-5 years,” comments Link, “though we expect that horizon to be somewhat further in the US, approximately 5-10 years away.”

Pike Research’s study, “Renewable Distributed Energy Generation”, provides a comprehensive overview of the opportunities and challenges associated with deploying RDEG technologies, including solar photovoltaics, small wind, and stationary fuel cells, to meet the world’s increasing demand for electricity.  The report includes an examination of key market drivers over the coming years, analysis of cost factors for each technology, and detailed market forecasts.  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 Renewable Energy, Clean Transportation, Clean Industry, Green Consumers, and Environmental Management sectors.  For more information, visit www.pikeresearch.com or call +1.303.997.7609.