PV Inverter Sales Trends

The projected worldwide dollar market for Distributed and Co-Generation (DCG) power electronics, including inverters for photovoltaic (PV) systems, is expected to increase from $3.7 billion in 2006 to $7.6 billion in 2011, a compound average annual growth rate of 15.4%. The market dynamics for these projects differ from region to region. In North America, DCG helps to relieve the pressure from volatile power prices and ensure power reliability. In Europe, DCG is being promoted because it provides an environment-friendly energy source, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In Asia, DCG contributes to the alleviation of power shortages and helps both mature and developing nations manage their energy needs. All these elements have contributed to a strong market for alternative power generation technologies like gensets, small-scale gas turbines, microturbines, photovoltaics, variable speed generators, wind turbines and fuel cells.