Micro generating, or small-scale power generation for domestic use, is growing in popularity for residential development. As more retailers manufacture and sell small-scale renewable energy sources like wind turbines and panels, more homes and communities are banking on the opportunity to produce “free” energy. Free, here, of course doesn’t mean literally. The upfront costs of renewable energy installation are still high, though slowly decreasing, but once that initial investment is paid off home owners are able to meet much of their own electricity needs without a monthly bill.
Micro generation is also gaining momentum in the commercial and industrial sectors, with big names like Wal-Mart pledging to have all their stores powered by renewable energy. Aside from reduced emissions from renewable energy sources, micro generation means independence from the larger grid. For communities at-risk of grid stresses like brownouts or storm outages, independence from the grid means being plugged in when others aren’t.
Here are some benefits and drawbacks of onsite generation from the Energy Collective:
Business Benefits
Possible lower prices
More sustainable business
Green credentials
Increased property value
Sell back excess to the grid
A level of control over continuity of supply
Industry Benefits
More reserves of fossil fuels
Charge higher rates for supply
Buy microgen energy at low price
Use others as generators – less reliant on their own
Business Drawbacks
Purchase energy at a higher rate when needed
Large initial investment
Maintenance of equipment
Space required for installation
Must be signed off by officials
Industry Drawbacks
Less contracts/ less revenue/profit
Loss of market share
No investment in energy infrastructure
Read more about the costs and benefits of micro generation from The Energy Collective.
