Information AboutMicrogeneration |
| CATEGORIES ABOUT MICROGENERATION | |
| low-energy building | |
| sustainability | |
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Microgeneration is the generation of zero or low-carbon heat and power by individuals, small businesses and communities to meet their own needs. Microgeneration technologies include small scale Wind Turbines , Water Turbine s, Ground Source Heat Pump s, Solar Thermal Collectors , Solar Electricity and MicroCHP installations. BENEFITS Arguments in favor of microgeneration are:
Bringing energy generation closer to the consumer by means of microgeneration may have the further benefits of:
DISADVANTAGES A number of scientists have been highly critical of microgeneration, noting that the sales-pitch exaggerations of microgenerator salespersons are making people cynical of "green" energy in general, not just of microgeneration. makes similar criticisms about the performance claims made by household solar panel manufacturers. Commentators also note that householders who buy their electricity with green energy tariffs can reduce their carbon usage further than with microgeneration and at a lower cost. Microgeneration supporter Jeremy Leggett countered these comments by pointing out that the solar panels he manufactures and sells are simple to install and will provide green energy regardless of fluctuations in electricity markets. By scaling down generation one foregoes the possible benefits of large scale generation. For example, the burden of maintenance falls on the owner, and out-sourcing it may incur extra costs. (Further material needed.) GOVERNMENT POLICY There is considerable resistance to microgeneration from many governments, local authorities and energy companies. Current incentives discourage energy suppliers and grid operators from bringing energy generation to the point of demand. Policy-makers are accustomed to an energy system based on big, centralised projects like nuclear or gas-fired power stations, and it will require a change of mindsets and incentives to bring microgeneration into the mainstream. Planning regulations may also require streamlining to facilitate the retrofitting of microgenerating facilities onto homes and buildings. A number of countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany and USA have laws allowing microgenerated electricity to be sold into the national grid. United Kingdom The UK Government published its Microgeneration Strategy UK Department of Trade and Industry Microgeneration Strategy in March 2006, although it was seen as a disappointment by many commentators. Home power plan 'disappointment' (DTI) launched the Low Carbon Buildings Programme in April 2006, which provides grants to individuals, communities and businesses wishing to invest in microgenerating technologies. Prominent British Politicians who have announced they are fitting microgenerating facilities to their homes include the Conservative party leader, David Cameron , and the Labour Science Minister , Malcolm Wicks . In the December 2006 . Legislation to this effect is to be included in the Finance Bill 2007 . REFERENCES SEE ALSO EXTERNAL LINKS UK related
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