Community Microgrids

For remote or otherwise vulnerable communities, access to reliable electricity is not always economical or physically practical. Community microgrids are a growing approach to improve energy access in these communities, often at a lower cost and carbon intensity than other options like line hardening or diesel powerhouses. Community microgrids are combinations of electricity generation, storage, control, and distribution technologies that raise energy reliability for communities. These microgrids are increasingly used in both developed and developing regions to electrify remote communities, lower utility liability, and enable economic development.

The drivers and barriers for community microgrids vary across regions owing to different regulatory approaches and infrastructure conditions. The largest driver today in overall capacity growth is utilities adopting microgrids in North America to reduce their overall financial and legal risks in the face of aging infrastructure and wildfire liability. Other drivers include rural electrification efforts in developing regions, community resilience initiatives, government investment in clean energy programs, and declining costs for critical microgrid components. Barriers include a lack of regulatory clarity, trade policy headwinds and tariff structures, and access to appropriate levels of capital.

This Guidehouse Research report examines the global market for community microgrids. The report analyzes current market issues, technology trends, drivers and barriers, and the policy landscape. Market forecasts are presented for capacity additions and revenue, and are segmented by world region, primary power source, and contributing industry. Forecasts cover the period from 2025 to 2034.