PV & Distributed Wind Trends

Thursday, April 18th: 8:30-10:00 AM

Market & policy trends for distributed renewables

Moderator: Kurt Sahl
Presenters: Larry Sherwood, Bret Barker, David Laino
Affiliations: eFormative Options, Seattle, WA; Sherwood & Associates, Boulder, CO; New West Technologies LLC Supporting the U.S. Department of Energy – Wind and Water Power Technologies Office, Washington, DC; Endurance Wind Power, Surrey, BC

Abstract: Will the U.S. continue to see strong domestic and export sales and sustain its leading role in the global supply of distributed renewables in the years ahead? Highlights of historical and recent market developments will be examined, to provide context for emerging trends in U.S. market share and installed cost of solar PV and distributed wind generation. Panelists will discuss impacts of changes to federal and state incentives and other market drivers, challenges and the economic value of domestic content.

Panelists will assess recent market growth and the impact of policy support for distributed renewable generation, including the amount of installed capacity and funding provided by state and by technology. Panelists will compare cost trends and impacts of policy support, and discuss implications for the future of each sector. Data collected through surveys of state incentive managers will aid in evaluating various policies and programs in driving the market, and opportunities for improvement will be explored. Attendees will learn about current industry challenges faced as well as the role of U.S. suppliers in the global market. Purpose of forum: identify emerging trends in U.S. market share, policies, and installed cost of solar PV and distributed wind generation including differences by region, system size and installation type.