Distributed generation technologies and markets are continuing to evolve. Some of the key factors that will affect market growth include:

New Technologies. The new technologies such as fuel cell and microturbines are currently entering the marketplace. In addition, improvements in conventional technologies such as reciprocating engines and industrial turbines are making them more competitive. Our detailed analysis has shown that each of these technologies has strengths and weaknesses and will find niches in the marketplace.

Energy Industry Deregulation. Changes in the electric and gas industries are presenting both opportunities and challenges to orgnaizations' distributed generation efforts. Understanding the impact of state-level deregulation on distributed generation is key to developing a distributed generation strategy. RDC monitors and tracks electric and gas industry deregulation developments in each state to determine their impacts on distributed generation markets.

Interconnection Issues. Various applications of distributed generation require different levels of interconnection. RDC is acitvely involved in IEEE standands-making activities for distributed generation.