Searches for power generation systems on Engineering360.com are up 86% since last year. Searches continue to tick up and have increased by 15% since March.

Power generation systems encompass a wide range of systems, including electric, fossil fuel, geothermal, solar, wind and more.

Electric power is currently the most efficient way to convert potential energy to working energy and move that working energy to where it is needed. Power generation systems are simply the combination of a potential or stored energy converter providing kinetic energy, which, in turn, creates electric power for use in motors, lighting, heating and other conveniences of modern life.

Portable or backup generators are generally in high demand during uncertain periods, such as during economic recessions, natural disasters, and notably during the Y2K scare. These generators allow buildings to receive power during power outages. As such, many consumers have invested or are interested in investing in a generator during the coronavirus pandemic.

In another area of power generation, solar and other renewable energies have seen reduced revenues due to COVID-19. A decline in wholesales prices amid low demand levels has led to this drop in revenue.

Overall, signs points to reduced demand for power during the pandemic. For example, ISO New England Inc., the operator of the region’s bulk power system and wholesale electricity markets, has observed a 3% to 5% decline in consumer demand attributable to the pandemic.