Distributed generation is another way to distribute power, rather than just a smaller scale of generating power. Distributed generation is already very significant. Eighty percent of these units are reciprocating engines. In addition we have even more reciprocating engines used for stand-by power. Caterpillar has captured a big part of this growth and is now a major manufacturer of power equipment along with GE, Siemens and ABB-Alstohm.
First price is low and spare parts and service are available most everywhere in the world.
There are two disadvantages with reciprocating engines emissions and maintenance. Even though there is a continuous effort to improve reciprocating engines, new technologies such as microturbines are better in regards to both emissions and maintenance. However, they have their disadvantages in addition to a higher cost. They are better but not perfect. Fuel cells hold many promises of becoming a clean and relatively efficient energy source.