The established system of electricity generation in the United States involves the use of large power plants transmitting power across distances (transmission) and then carrying it through local utility lines (distribution).
The practice of installing and operating electric generating equipment at or near the site of where the power is used is known as "distributed generation" (DG). Distributed generation provides electricity to customers on-site or supports a distribution network, connecting to the grid at distribution level voltages. DG technologies include engines, small (and micro) turbines, fuel cells, and photovoltaic systems.
Distributed generation may provide some or all of customers’ electricity needs. Customers can use DG to reduce demand charges imposed by their electric utility or to provide premium power or reduce environmental emissions. DG can also be used by electric utilities to enhance their distribution systems. Many other applications for DG solutions exist.
Commercial and industrial facilities can generate enough power to meet their needs using existing technologies. This also gives them the ability to have back-up power during times of blackout.
Distributed generation systems can provide an organization with the following benefits:
• Peak Shaving;
• On-site backup power during a voluntary interruption;
• Primary power with backup power provided by another supplier;
• Combined load heat and power for your own use;
• Load following for improved power quality or lower prices;
• To satisfy your preference for renewable energy
In conjunction with combined heat and power (CHP) applications, DG can improve overall thermal efficiency. On a stand-alone basis, DG is often used as back-up power to enhance reliability or as a means of deferring investment in transmission and distribution networks, avoiding network charges, reducing line losses, deferring construction of large generation facilities, displacing expensive grid-supplied power, providing alternative sources of supply in markets, and providing environmental benefits.
In recent years, DG has become an efficient and clean alternative to traditional distribution systems. And recent technologies are making it economically feasible.
Substantial efforts are being made to develop environmentally sound and cost-competitive small-scale electric generation that can be installed at or near points of use in ways that enhance the reliability of local distribution systems or avoid more expensive system additions. Examples of these distributed resources include fuel cells, small gas turbines, and photovoltaic arrays.
This report on Distributed Generation Technologies takes an in-depth look at the industry and analyzes the various technologies that contribute to distributed generation in today’s age. The report focuses on these technologies through case studies, examples, and equations and formulas. The report also contains analysis of the leading countries actively promoting distributed generation.
View Table of ContentsPages: 111
Publication Date: August 2007
Publisher: Energy Business Reports
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