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Major macroeconomic trends are driving a fundamental shift in electricity markets


The electricity market landscape is transforming from a centralized and fossil fuel-based power plant model into a more diverse system that places increasing importance both on a distributed energy framework and on renewable energy systems, propelling the explosive growth of the renewable energy industry

Increasing Demand Rapid industrialization in developing nations is causing a surge in power demand. U.S. electricity demand is on pace to increase more than 50% by 2030.

Finite Resource Supply U.S. oil production peaked in 1970 at a level twice as high as today’s. No new nuclear power plants have been built in the U.S. in 36 years. U.S. annual natural gas production remains trillions of cubic feet below the level it reached in 1973.

Energy Independence The push towards energy independence will require the use of more expensive domestic energy alternatives.

Carbon Cap & Trade An MIT study estimated that a moderate carbon cap would raise electricity prices at least 55% in next 7 years. The Department of Energy believes a $30/ton carbon tax would increase electricity costs 60% to 150%.

Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) More than half of U.S. states have passed legislation requiring that the state derive a substantial portion of its energy from renewable sources. In total, 40 GW of renewable energy must be built and paid for by 2020. A federal renewable energy standard is expected soon.

Aging Infrastructure According to a report by the Brattle Group, $2 trillion is required to maintain and refurbish America’s grid. An additional $1.5 trillion will be needed in the coming decades to replace aging power plants.

Discover why solar power is the affordable solution