ABSTRACT
A study [1] was completed by the author in January 1999 which aimed to identify and quantify the market opportunities for stand-alone renewable energy power supplies in the UK, covering solar PV, wind, and micro-hydro electricity-generating systems. The focus of the study was on small systems, probably charging a battery, and generally less than a few kW installed capacity. Emphasis on grid-connected renewables in the UK has drawn attention away from the fact that it is off-grid systems that can offer immediate and genuinely commercial markets for the renewables industry. There is likely to be a major increase in the worldwide market for renewable energy systems in the next 10 years, and renewed efforts are required to ensure that the UK is in a position to play a commercial role in that market. With targeted efforts to stimulate the market, UK industry believes that a potential market of over 6000kWp can be achieved and exceeded by 2010. with a business potential in excess of £60million for manufacture and installation.
