June 30, 2011
Energy markets in the Asia Pacific region are experiencing a period of significant growth and development, driven both by expanding electricity demand as well as new opportunities for cleaner and more efficient power generation, transmission, and distribution. According to a new report from Pike Research, investment in smart grid technologies by utilities and governments within Asia Pacific will rise at a healthy pace over the next several years, and the total smart grid market will increase from $11.9 billion in 2011 to $28.8 billion by 2017. The cleantech market intelligence firm forecasts that cumulative smart grid investment in the region will reach $171.3 billion by 2017.
“Smart grid market drivers differ significantly by country within the Asia Pacific region,” says senior analyst Andy Bae. “Chinese market players believe that the construction of a smart grid is a key part of economic growth and enhancing the ability to optimize energy allocation, including the integration of new generation capacity from both renewable and fossil fuel sources. Japan’s electric utilities have been investing huge amounts of capital in power infrastructure, resulting in advanced capabilities in transmission infrastructure and power delivery services; however, the tragic March 2011 earthquake, tsunami, and resulting Fukushima nuclear accident are likely to redefine not only Japan’s smart grid planning, but perhaps the direction of the nation’s utility industry. Korea seeks to leverage its technology leadership in the IT and communications space to form an advanced smart grid infrastructure within the country, as well as an opportunity to export smart grid technologies around the world. Significant and influential smart grid projects are also underway in Australia, India, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region.”
Bae adds that transmission upgrades will be the largest application category within the region, representing 54% of total smart grid investment between now and 2017. Distribution automation and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) will also be key applications, capturing 18% and 15% of total spending, respectively.
Pike Research’s report, “Smart Grid in Asia Pacific”, provides an in-depth analysis of market drivers, business models and applications, and technology issues for the development of the smart grid in key markets within the Asia Pacific region. The study includes detailed forecasts by application area for China, Japan, Korea, Australia, India, and the ASEAN region. Profiles are also provided for more than 30 key industry players. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the firm’s website.
Pike Research is a market research and consulting firm that provides in-depth analysis of global clean technology markets. The company’s research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of the Smart Energy, Smart Grid, Smart Transportation, Smart Industry, and Smart Buildings sectors. For more information, visit www.navigantresearch.com or call +1.303.997.7609.