Growth in alternative energy markets

Clean and alternative energy markets are expected to grow rapidly over the next 5-10 years. Part of it is being driven by the demand-supply issues in the global energy industry, by the pressure from countries that are regulating their energy burden according to the Kyoto protocol, and some because of a consumer demand for cleaner energy. For example, the growth of Hybrid prius in the US markets is largely driven by new technology application and the pressure on Toyoto to meet CAFE standards, but it is also a testimony to public's appetite for a high quality product that has a 'green' association without becoming a big burden on thier pockets. Between the success of Priu and outfits like Whole Foods organic products, I sense a strong unmet demand for high quality, low-cost 'green' products.

There is a need for a market mechanism that brings the benefits of green house gas reduction, and/or efficient energy usage closer to the individual consumers, so they can speed up the move to alternative energy sources in everyday consumption.