Key Insights
The European Automated Demand Response (ADR) market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing energy costs, the integration of renewable energy sources, and stringent environmental regulations. The market, estimated at €[Estimate based on "Market size XX" and Value Unit Million. For example, if XX was 100, then this would be €100 million] in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 2.00% through 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the rising adoption of smart grids and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) provides the necessary technological foundation for effective ADR implementation. Secondly, government incentives and policies aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions are significantly boosting market adoption across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Furthermore, the growing awareness among consumers and businesses about the benefits of energy cost savings and environmental sustainability is further driving the demand for ADR solutions.
Market segmentation reveals a strong presence across various components, namely hardware, software, and services, each contributing uniquely to the overall market value. Geographically, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy represent major market contributors within Europe. Key players, including Itron Inc, Honeywell International Inc, Hitachi Ltd, Siemens AG, and others, are actively engaged in developing and deploying innovative ADR solutions, fostering competition and driving technological advancements within the sector. While challenges such as initial investment costs and cybersecurity concerns remain, the long-term benefits of enhanced grid stability, reduced energy consumption, and environmental protection are expected to propel the sustained growth of the European ADR market. The continuing expansion of smart city initiatives and the increasing focus on digitalization across various sectors will further fuel market expansion in the coming years.
Europe Automated Demand Response Market Report: 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the Europe Automated Demand Response Market, offering invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategists. Covering the period from 2019 to 2033, with a focus on 2025, this report unveils market dynamics, growth drivers, challenges, and opportunities within this rapidly evolving sector. The report leverages robust data and expert analysis to provide actionable intelligence for informed decision-making.

Europe Automated Demand Response Market Market Structure & Innovation Trends
The Europe Automated Demand Response Market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with key players such as Itron Inc, Honeywell International Inc, Hitachi Ltd, Siemens AG, and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation holding significant market share. However, the market also features several smaller, specialized companies contributing to innovation. The total market size in 2025 is estimated at XX Million. Market share is distributed as follows: Itron Inc (xx%), Honeywell International Inc (xx%), Hitachi Ltd (xx%), Siemens AG (xx%), Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (xx%), and Others (xx%). Innovation is primarily driven by advancements in AI, IoT, and cloud computing, enabling more sophisticated demand response strategies. Regulatory frameworks, such as those promoting renewable energy integration, are key drivers, while the rising cost of energy and growing concerns about climate change are further contributing factors. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has been notable, with recent deals, while specific deal values are not publicly available for all, indicating a trend towards consolidation and expansion into new market segments. For example, the acquisition of GridX GmbH by E.on SE exemplifies the strategic importance of automated demand response technologies in the energy transition. The estimated total value of M&A activities in the last 5 years is approximately XX Million.

Europe Automated Demand Response Market Market Dynamics & Trends
The Europe Automated Demand Response Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors. The increasing adoption of smart grids and renewable energy sources is creating a need for advanced demand management solutions. This, coupled with stringent government regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions and improving grid stability, further fuels market expansion. Technological advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are enabling more efficient and sophisticated demand response programs. Consumer preferences are also shifting towards environmentally friendly solutions, with consumers increasingly willing to participate in demand response programs to reduce their carbon footprint and potentially lower their energy bills. The CAGR for the forecast period (2025-2033) is estimated at xx%, with a projected market size of xx Million by 2033. Market penetration is expected to reach xx% by 2033, reflecting increasing consumer and industrial adoption. Competitive dynamics are characterized by both intense competition among established players and the emergence of innovative startups offering niche solutions.

Dominant Regions & Segments in Europe Automated Demand Response Market
Germany, followed by the UK and France, are currently the dominant regions within the European Automated Demand Response Market. This dominance stems from several factors:
- Germany: Strong government support for renewable energy integration and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) deployment. A robust industrial sector with a high demand for energy efficiency solutions.
- UK: Significant investments in smart grid technologies and a focus on reducing carbon emissions. A well-developed energy market with a high degree of regulatory oversight.
- France: Government initiatives to promote energy efficiency and support the development of smart grids. A strong presence of major energy companies actively investing in demand response technologies.
By Component: The Software segment currently holds the largest market share, driven by the increasing demand for sophisticated analytics and data management capabilities. The Hardware segment is expected to witness significant growth in the forecast period due to the ongoing deployment of smart meters and other intelligent devices. Services segment also shows significant potential due to increasing need for system integration and maintenance.
By Application: The Industrial segment is the largest, followed by the Commercial segment, driven by the significant energy consumption and cost-saving opportunities within these sectors. The Residential segment is expected to see increasing growth as smart home technologies become more prevalent and accessible.
Europe Automated Demand Response Market Product Innovations
Recent product innovations focus on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of demand response programs through advanced analytics, predictive modeling, and improved user interfaces. The integration of AI and machine learning algorithms is allowing for more precise load forecasting and optimized energy management. New applications are emerging in areas such as electric vehicle charging management and building automation systems. These advancements improve market fit by enhancing cost savings for end-users and improving grid stability and efficiency.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report segments the Europe Automated Demand Response Market by component (hardware, software, services) and by application (residential, commercial, industrial). Each segment is analyzed in detail, providing market size estimations, growth projections, and competitive dynamics. The hardware segment includes smart meters, sensors, and communication devices. The software segment covers the analytics platforms, energy management systems, and demand response optimization tools. The services segment incorporates system integration, implementation, and maintenance. Residential applications comprise individual homes and apartments utilizing demand response. Commercial applications include businesses and commercial buildings. Industrial applications involve factories and manufacturing plants. Growth projections vary by segment, with software and industrial applications displaying strong growth potential.
Key Drivers of Europe Automated Demand Response Market Growth
The growth of the Europe Automated Demand Response Market is fueled by several key factors: Firstly, the increasing penetration of renewable energy sources creates the need for effective demand management. Secondly, stringent government regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions incentivize the adoption of demand response technologies. Finally, advancements in AI and IoT are enabling the development of more sophisticated and efficient demand response solutions.
Challenges in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market Sector
The Europe Automated Demand Response Market faces several challenges. High initial investment costs for implementing advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) can be a barrier to entry for smaller companies and consumers. Interoperability issues between different systems can hinder seamless integration and create implementation hurdles. Furthermore, consumer participation and adoption rates can vary across different regions and demographics, which may impact overall market penetration. These challenges can be overcome through government subsidies, better consumer education, and a focus on system interoperability standards.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Automated Demand Response Market
Emerging opportunities lie in the integration of demand response with other smart grid technologies, such as energy storage systems and microgrids. The development of new business models that incentivize consumer participation can further drive market growth. Exploring niche applications in specific industrial sectors, such as data centers or manufacturing plants, presents significant opportunities. Finally, expansion into Eastern European countries with less developed smart grid infrastructure opens up further potential.
Leading Players in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market Market
- Itron Inc
- Honeywell International Inc
- Hitachi Ltd
- Siemens AG
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Autogrid Systems Inc
- Schneider Electric SE
- Eaton Corporation PLC
- General Electric Company
Key Developments in Europe Automated Demand Response Market Industry
- December 2021: EU's Joint Research Centre reviewed smart grid projects, highlighting EUR 2.32 billion in EU funding for these initiatives. This significantly boosts market growth by demonstrating government support and fostering innovation.
- September 2021: E.on SE's acquisition of GridX GmbH expands its digital solutions portfolio, signifying strategic investment in the sector and consolidating market share.
- November 2021: TAURON's PLN 2.8 billion loan for AMI deployment in Poland demonstrates the significant investment in smart grid infrastructure, driving demand for automated demand response technologies.
Future Outlook for Europe Automated Demand Response Market Market
The Europe Automated Demand Response Market is poised for continued strong growth, driven by increasing energy prices, stringent environmental regulations, and technological advancements. The integration of AI, machine learning and IoT will continue to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of demand response programs. Strategic partnerships and collaborations between energy providers, technology companies, and consumers will be crucial for unlocking the full potential of this market. The forecast suggests a significant increase in market size and penetration over the next decade.
Europe Automated Demand Response Market Segmentation
- 1. Production Analysis
- 2. Consumption Analysis
- 3. Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 4. Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 5. Price Trend Analysis
Europe Automated Demand Response Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United Kingdom
- 2. France
- 3. Germany
- 4. Rest of Europe

Europe Automated Demand Response Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 2.00% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. 4.; Growing Vehicle Ownership4.; Government Initiatives
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Volatile Crude Oil Prices
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Increased Adoption of Smart Grid Technologies
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 5.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 5.6. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.6.1. United Kingdom
- 5.6.2. France
- 5.6.3. Germany
- 5.6.4. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 6. United Kingdom Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 6.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 6.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 7. France Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 7.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 7.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 8. Germany Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 8.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 8.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 9. Rest of Europe Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 9.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 9.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 10. Germany Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. France Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Italy Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. United Kingdom Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Netherlands Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Sweden Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Rest of Europe Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Competitive Analysis
- 17.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 17.2. Company Profiles
- 17.2.1 Itron Inc
- 17.2.1.1. Overview
- 17.2.1.2. Products
- 17.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.2 Honeywell International Inc
- 17.2.2.1. Overview
- 17.2.2.2. Products
- 17.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.3 Hitachi Ltd
- 17.2.3.1. Overview
- 17.2.3.2. Products
- 17.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.4 Siemens AG
- 17.2.4.1. Overview
- 17.2.4.2. Products
- 17.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.5 Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- 17.2.5.1. Overview
- 17.2.5.2. Products
- 17.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.6 Autogrid Systems Inc
- 17.2.6.1. Overview
- 17.2.6.2. Products
- 17.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.7 Schneider Electric SE
- 17.2.7.1. Overview
- 17.2.7.2. Products
- 17.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.8 Eaton Corporation PLC
- 17.2.8.1. Overview
- 17.2.8.2. Products
- 17.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.9 General Electric Company
- 17.2.9.1. Overview
- 17.2.9.2. Products
- 17.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.1 Itron Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Germany Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: France Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Italy Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: United Kingdom Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Netherlands Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Sweden Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Rest of Europe Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Automated Demand Response Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 2.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market?
Key companies in the market include Itron Inc, Honeywell International Inc, Hitachi Ltd, Siemens AG, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Autogrid Systems Inc, Schneider Electric SE, Eaton Corporation PLC, General Electric Company.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Automated Demand Response Market?
The market segments include Production Analysis, Consumption Analysis, Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume), Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume), Price Trend Analysis.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Growing Vehicle Ownership4.; Government Initiatives.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increased Adoption of Smart Grid Technologies.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Volatile Crude Oil Prices.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In December 2021, EU's Joint Research Centre reviewed smart grid projects funded by the European Union under its last two FP7 and Horizon 2020 research funding programmes, as well as its competitiveness and innovation programmes on ICT and intelligent energy. Of the total EUR 3.08 billion invested in the projects, the European Union contribution amounted to EUR 2.32 billion serving as a significant driver.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Automated Demand Response Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence