Advances in Distributed Generation Technologies (Technical Insights)

Frost & Sullivan

- Pub ID: MC1370786

This research service focusses on distributed generation technologies such as fuel cells, photovoltaics, wind based power, gas turbines, micro turbines and miniturbines. The study lists the key challenges, drivers and trends in each of the above mentioned categories of distributed generation technologies. In addition, the research identifies the key patents in the distributed generation technologies and decision support databases.

Research Overview

This Frost & Sullivan research service entitled Advances in Distributed Generation Technologies provides an overview of major developments in these technologies including fuel cells, gas turbines, PV, wind-based power, microturbines, and miniturbines. It also provides an analysis of the drivers and challenges likely to impact the uptake of these technologies, as well an in-depth analysis of key trends and applications.

Technology Overview

Distributed Generation Technologies have a High Potential to Meet Growing Power Needs

Increasing number of issues associated with the electricity generated at a centralized grid and transmitted through utility networks has brought distributed generation technologies into the limelight. Concerns abound over how efficiently electricity generated in this manner can reach end points and whether existing transmission networks are capable of handling excess capacity, if any. The quality of power at the receiving end as well as transmission losses and related costs are also becoming matters of considerable concern. "This has led the focus to shift to distributed generation technologies that enable the power to be generated close to the location where it is required," says the analyst of this research service. "Moreover, any excess power generated can be fed to the grid to cater to deficit areas."

In developed countries, distribution generation technologies are primarily viewed as a way to meet the overall shortage of power and to reduce any additional burden on transmission networks. In the United States, for instance, the Department of Energy estimates that the country will require up to 1.7 trillion kWh of additional electric power by 2020. This is thrice the amount of power used between 1980 and 2000. Clearly, it would be very difficult for any power utility to cater to such massive incremental power needs using the existing transmission and distribution network, and this is bound to further emphasize the role played by distributed generation technologies.

Increasing Interest in Distributed Generation Technologies Due to Environment-friendliness

In developing countries, distributed generation technologies play a critical role in addressing frequent power shortages. Due to diminishing reserves and high costs of energy, these countries are fast realizing the importance of building a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. With global warming becoming a reality that countries can no longer ignore, distributed generation technologies such as wind-based, photovoltaic (PV)-based, and fuel cell-based power generation are garnering greater attention as they have the advantage of being environment-friendly.

"In addition to the advantages of meeting power shortages and reducing the excess burden on utilities, distributed generation technologies such as fuel cells offer 'green' power," notes the analyst. "These technologies have great potential to reduce the current dependence on conventional fossil fuels as well as help power plants reduce green house emissions."

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