Microturbine Market By Power Rating (Up to 50 kW, 51 kW-250 kW, 251-500 kW, and 501-1000 kW), By Application (Combined Heat & Power (CHP) and Standby Power), By End-user (Residential, Commercial and Industrial), By Region, By Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2018-2028

Market Overview

The Global Microturbine Market reached a size of USD 190.83 million in 2022 and is projected to grow to USD 251.82 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 9.05% through 2028. The increasing need and demand for low-emission energy generation are fueling the expansion of the global microturbine market. Moreover, the surge in demand for clean and sustainable energy is driving the global microturbine market throughout the forecast period. Growing environmental concerns and pollution levels are stimulating the demand for microturbines in the global market. Additionally, economic advancements are contributing to the growth and development of the global microturbine market.

Key Market Drivers

Growing Demand for Clean and Distributed Energy Generation

The global microturbine market is primarily driven by the increasing demand for clean and distributed energy generation solutions. With a growing emphasis on environmental sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, there is a shift towards cleaner and more efficient energy technologies. Microturbines present an attractive solution as they can operate on a variety of fuels, including natural gas, biogas, and renewable fuels, while emitting lower levels of pollutants compared to conventional fossil-fueled power generation. Microturbines are well-suited for distributed energy generation applications, where power is produced in close proximity to the point of consumption, resulting in reduced transmission and distribution losses. These versatile systems find applications in combined heat and power (CHP) systems, microgrids, and off-grid power generation projects. By providing a decentralized approach to energy production, they enhance energy efficiency and grid resilience. The increasing adoption of microgrids, particularly in remote and off-grid locations, further fuels the demand for microturbines. In such settings, microturbines offer a reliable and cost-effective solution for providing electricity and heat to communities, industrial facilities, and commercial establishments. Moreover, the ability of microturbines to complement intermittent renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, enhances the overall reliability and stability of distributed energy systems.

Favorable Government Policies and Incentives

Government policies and incentives play a crucial role in promoting the adoption of microturbines and driving the global market. Many countries have implemented supportive policies to encourage the development and deployment of distributed energy generation technologies, including microturbines. Governments worldwide are increasingly recognizing the importance of clean energy and decentralized power generation in achieving climate goals and improving energy security. Consequently, various financial incentives, tax credits, grants, and feed-in tariffs are offered to businesses and consumers investing in microturbine installations. These incentives significantly reduce the upfront capital costs and improve the return on investment, making microturbine projects more economically viable. Moreover, regulatory frameworks and mandates related to renewable energy integration and emissions reduction create a conducive environment for microturbine adoption. In certain regions, microturbines may be eligible for renewable energy certificates or carbon credits, further enhancing their attractiveness as sustainable energy solutions.

Increasing Focus on Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency plays a crucial role in driving the global microturbine market. Businesses and industries are actively seeking ways to optimize energy usage, reduce operating costs, and minimize environmental impact. Microturbines are widely recognized for their exceptional electrical and thermal efficiency, making them highly suitable for combined heat and power (CHP) applications. CHP systems, also known as cogeneration, offer the simultaneous production of electricity and usable heat from a single fuel source. The waste heat generated during power generation is effectively utilized for heating, cooling, or industrial processes, resulting in significant improvements in overall system efficiency. Microturbines, characterized by their compact size and modular design, can seamlessly integrate into various CHP installations, including commercial buildings, hospitals, and manufacturing facilities. By embracing microturbine-based CHP systems, end-users can achieve substantial energy savings and reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional grid-based electricity and separate heating systems. As energy efficiency continues to gain prominence in sustainability strategies, the demand for microturbine solutions in CHP applications is projected to fuel market expansion.

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Key Market Challenges

High Initial Investment Cost

Microturbines are sophisticated and compact power generation devices that offer numerous advantages, including high efficiency, low emissions, and fuel flexibility. However, the significant initial capital expenditure required for purchasing and installing microturbine systems can pose a substantial barrier for many potential customers. The elevated upfront cost of microturbines can be primarily attributed to the advanced technology, specialized engineering, and the use of premium materials in their manufacturing. Moreover, the economies of scale for microturbine production have not yet reached levels comparable to conventional power generation technologies like reciprocating engines or gas turbines. Additionally, microturbines often necessitate additional infrastructure modifications, such as electrical interconnection and exhaust systems, which contribute to the overall deployment cost. These factors can potentially discourage end-users, particularly in small-scale applications, where the payback period may not be as attractive compared to traditional power generation options. To tackle the challenge of the high initial investment cost, manufacturers and industry stakeholders are actively engaged in research and development efforts to enhance microturbine efficiency, reduce production costs, and explore innovative financing models. Government incentives, tax credits, and grants for distributed energy generation projects can also play a significant role in fostering the adoption of microturbine systems, making them more economically viable for a broader customer base.

Grid Integration and Power Quality

Another challenge faced by the global microturbine market is the integration of the grid and issues related to power quality. Microturbines are commonly utilized in distributed energy generation applications, such as combined heat and power (CHP) systems, remote power generation, and microgrid installations. In these applications, the seamless integration and synchronization of microturbines with the utility grid or other power sources are crucial. The integration challenges arise due to the fluctuating nature of renewable energy sources, like solar and wind power, which are often combined with microturbines in hybrid energy systems. To manage load variations and ensure grid stability during transient conditions, microturbines must be equipped with sophisticated control systems. Moreover, maintaining seamless grid synchronization during grid blackouts and reconnection events is of utmost importance to uphold power quality and prevent grid disruptions. Another concern is power quality when integrating microturbines with the utility grid. To ensure smooth power delivery to end-users, microturbines need to adhere to stringent power quality standards, including voltage regulation, frequency stability, and low harmonic distortion. Any deviation from these standards can result in equipment malfunctions, damage to sensitive electronic devices, and potential penalties imposed by regulatory authorities.

Key Market Trends

Integration of Microturbines in Hybrid Energy Systems

One of the significant trends observed in the global microturbine market is the increasing integration of microturbines in hybrid energy systems. These systems combine multiple energy sources, including microturbines, solar photovoltaics (PV), wind turbines, energy storage, and traditional generators, to create a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable power generation solution. Microturbines play a crucial role in hybrid systems by providing a stable and efficient power source that complements intermittent renewable energy sources like solar and wind. The flexibility of microturbines to operate on various fuels, such as natural gas, biogas, and hydrogen, enables them to adapt to different energy mixes, optimizing system performance based on fuel availability and demand. In hybrid microgrid applications, microturbines act as the backbone of the system, providing continuous baseload power to meet the minimum demand. Solar and wind sources then supplement the microturbine output during periods of high renewable energy production, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and lowering operating costs. The integration of energy storage technologies, such as batteries, allows for the storage of excess renewable energy and its discharge during peak demand or when renewable sources are unavailable. The integration of microturbines in hybrid energy systems offers several advantages. Firstly, it enhances overall energy efficiency and system stability by optimizing the use of renewable and non-renewable resources. Secondly, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports sustainability goals by displacing a portion of the energy generated from fossil fuels. Lastly, the combination of multiple energy sources increases the reliability and resilience of the power system, ensuring continuous power supply even in the event of a grid outage. As the focus on decarbonization and renewable energy integration continues to grow, the trend of integrating microturbines in hybrid energy systems is expected to gain momentum, driving the expansion of the global microturbine market.

Segmental Insights

Application Insights

Combined Heat and Power (CHP) is poised to dominate the market during the forecast period. Also known as cogeneration, CHP represents a highly advantageous application of microturbines in the global energy landscape. CHP systems effectively generate both electricity and useful heat from a single fuel source, providing substantial energy efficiency improvements and environmental advantages. Microturbines are well-suited for CHP applications due to their compact size, high efficiency, and fuel flexibility, making them a pivotal component in decentralized energy generation. CHP finds particular favor in industries, commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, and district heating applications that require simultaneous electricity and thermal energy supply.

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Regional Insights

North America plays a significant role in the global microturbine market, with the United States and Canada being the primary contributors to industry growth. The region's robust industrial base, advanced technology adoption, and increasing focus on clean energy solutions drive the demand for microturbines across various applications. Moreover, the extensive use of natural gas, availability of renewable fuels, and supportive government policies further enhance the adoption of microturbine systems. The North American microturbine market is characterized by the presence of well-established manufacturers, system integrators, and service providers. The region has witnessed a growing interest in distributed energy generation, fueled by the desire for energy independence, resilience, and sustainability. Microturbines, with their compact size, low emissions, and ability to operate on multiple fuels, are highly suitable for decentralized power generation in urban and remote areas. Various government incentives, tax credits, and grants provided by federal and state authorities encourage the deployment of microturbine systems. Additionally, renewable energy standards, emissions reduction targets, and net metering programs incentivize end-users to invest in microturbines for both clean energy generation and financial benefits.

Recent Developments

• In October 2017, Aurelia forged a partnership with Greenray Energy Solutions to expand business opportunities for its A400 gas turbine in the UK, Asia, and the Middle East.
• During September 2017, Capstone Turbine's energy financing joint venture, Capstone Energy Finance, executed a 5-year agreement with a prominent greenhouse operation in Colorado, US. The company would be installing multiple propane-fired C65 micro turbines to supply electricity for the greenhouse.
• In July 2017, Capstone Turbine's Australian distributor, Optimal Group, secured a follow-on CHP order consisting of a C600S Signature Series micro turbine and 4 C200S Signature Series micro turbines. These turbines will generate electricity for three office towers in Melbourne's Central Business District.
• In April 2017, MTT entered into an agreement with the Dutch contract manufacturer, Addit BV, for the production of commercial EnerTwin micro CHP systems targeting the European market.
• In April 2017, Capstone Turbine partnered with FGC Plasma Solutions LLC (US) for the testing of an innovative plasma-assisted fuel injection technology in its C65 micro turbine.

Key Market Players

• Capstone Turbine Corporation
• FlexEnergy, Inc.
• Ansaldo Energia S.p.A.
• Brayton Energy, LLC
• Eneftech Innovation SA
• Microturbine technology BV
• Wilson Solarpower Corporation
• ICR Turbine Engine Corporation
• Calnetix Technologies LLC
• Toyota Motor Corporation