Valuing the preferences for micro-generation of renewables by househoulds

•We study the valuation of preferences in small scale renewable electricity generation.•We conducted a stated choice experiment among 507 respondents.•Respondents prefer installing the capacity in small to medium sized groups.•Preferred location for the generation capacity is at sea, followed by rooftops.•Green electricity consumers are less price sensitive than other consumers.

We study the valuation of preferences for small scale initiatives in renewable electricity generation. We analyse the results of a stated choice experiment among 507 respondents in The Netherlands and provide valuations of characteristics of small scale initiatives. Respondents prefer installing the capacity in small to medium sized groups and their preferred location for the generation capacity is at sea, followed by their own roofs. People that already consume green electricity, as well as those that have indicated to be willing to generate energy locally, are less price sensitive than others. Our results suggest that there is ample scope for expanding the role of micro-generation.