The worldwide electric capacity of distributed generation is expected to grow from its current 20,000 MW to 300,000 MW by 2011 — a 15-fold increase — according to a report from Allied Business Intelligence (ABI).

Distributed generation incorporates various methods of generating or storing electricity that are located close to the point of use, such as fuel cells or solar electric power systems. ABI says that reciprocating engines and small gas turbines should dominate the market until about 2005, when fuel cells are expected to become more prominent.

— Greg Mazurkiewicz

Publication date: 07/08/2002