Integrating Micro-Generation into Energy Networks and Buildings : Full Research Report

Abstract:

<p>Microgeneration in individual homes has been the subject of increasing policy and industry attention in recent years. Although there are only around 100,000 microgeneration installations in the UK, the Energy Saving Trust believes that microgeneration could supply 30-40% of UK electricity demand by 2050 (Energy Saving Trust, 2005b). If adopted by large numbers of households in this way, microgeneration could bring about fundamental change to our energy system. Many consumers would become energy producers, leading to a breakdown of the traditional distinction between energy supply and demand. Established regulatory frameworks and energy infrastructures could need to change radically to deal with a fundamental decentralisation of power and control.</p> <p>This project investigated how microgeneration might be deployed in the UK and its possible implications for domestic consumers, energy companies and the energy system as a whole. Working closely with industry and government it identified technical, regulatory and institutional changes that might stimulate the market uptake of microgeneration technologies. The aims of the project were set out in the original proposal. The main objective of the research is: to work with industry and government to help tackle the main challenges associated with microgeneration. Its more specific aims were: <bl> <li>To make an original academic contribution that focuses on the effect of microgeneration on consumer-supplier relationships, on the wider energy system, and on developments in housing;</li> <li>To develop a set of business models for microgeneration investments that reflect a variety of approaches to ownership and operation;</li> <li>To validate these business models with data from real microgeneration installations and possible future developments in collaboration with industry and government;</li> <li>To identify possible modifications in technical standards, regulatory frameworks and institutional arrangements to the uptake of microgeneration in the UK;</li> <li>To work with energy and housing policy makers who are responsible for implementing these modifications.</li> </bl></p> <p>These aims and objectives have largely been fulfilled by the project. A number of challenges affected the fulfilment of the objectives. Section 7 of the End of Award Report Form provides further details of these and their impact on the project.</p> This report is divided into the following sections: <ol> <li>Background</li> <li>Objectives</li> <li>Methods</li> <li>Results</li> <li>Activites</li> <li>Outputs</li> <li>Impacts</li> <li>Future Research Priorities</li> <li>References</li> </ol> <ul> <li>Appendix 1 - Schematic of main project activities and outputs</li> <li>Appendix 2 - Members of the Project Advisory Group</li> <li>Appendix 3 - List of interviewees</li> <li>Appendix 4 - Full list of project outcomes</li> </ul>

Author(s):

Watson, W.