Microgrids appear to be a bottom-up market-driven phenomenon that is gaining penetration and market share based on decisions by facility operators and real estate developers, without additional government incentives or regulatory intervention.

The U.S. energy storage market is strong and robust yet still developing as technology and policy continue to evolve. The market has large potential for growth; opportunity abounds. Continuous development of initiatives that reduce costs and increase experience is necessary for the market to meet growth expectations.

The Obama Administration has outlined ambitious plans to diversify the nation’s energy supply— particularly, through promoting the rapid development of both centralized and distributed renewable generation. The “Blueprint for a Secure Energy Future” proposes the establishment of a Clean Energy Standard. It notes that 80 percent of the nation’s electricity will be generated by a [...]

Energy storage technologies and applications continue to advance. Yet much work is still to be done on developing policies and standards for energy storage devices and applications. So how do developers, manufacturers, and end users gain confidence in their energy storage investments?

A look at recent history of electricity market innovations in the United States shows that competitive markets have fostered—and will continue to foster—innovation in the U.S. electricity industry. Three case studies shed light on aspects of competitive electricity markets that can help accelerate innovation.