Relevant markets for renewable energies are those parts of an
energy system, where renewable energy technologies have already achieved or are
set to achieve a significant market share. Policies should be specifically
targeted towards them.
In the case of
electricity generation, renewables are
very present in the form of hydro power. Wind, biomass and biogas as well
as solar electricity generation are growing strongly. Geothermal, ocean
and other power sources will be tapped where available.
In low-temperature energy services, the solar hot
water heater is reaching high dissemination. With appropriate policies,
these and other renewable energy technologies (RET), including heat pumps, can contribute
on a large
scale to hot water, heating and cooling services.
In rural
areas of developing countries, a wide variety of technologies and
sources is used in various mixes for the different energy services. The policy
for these areas has to provide
access to modern energy and reduce the harmful impacts of traditional
fuels to its user's health and the local environment. New RETs can meet
this challenge.
Transport fuel is another distinct
field of great opportunities for renewable energies. Policies are
required to open and shape the fuel markets. However,
policies must also face the issue of competing uses and protection of
land and natural resources.
In the future, renewable energy may also
enter other markets in a significant manner, for example the gas supply
market.
