1. Energy, Utilities & Chemicals the way we do it
Distributed Generation:
Giving Customers a Choice
in Energy Sources
On a traditional power grid, energy On a smart grid with distributed
generation and distribution were generation, energy can be generated
relatively simple. The generator close to the point of use. Those who
produced electricity at a plant, and the produce this power have the option
transmission system carried electricity to “resell” it to the utility, and this
from the plant to substations. At the exchange represents a new way to
substation, the voltage was reduced and generate and distribute energy and
electricity continued to travel through a new kind of relationship between
the distribution system, where utilities and customers.
transformers converted it into the
voltage used by customers. At the Hybrid Systems Combine
customer’s site, electricity passed Renewable and Traditional
through the meter, which recorded Energy Sources
usage as electricity was consumed. Solar, wind, and thermal energy are
renewable sources that can generate
Energy flow was essentially one way. energy “close to point of use.” Unlike
With distributed generation, a generator major power stations, technology
installed “behind the meter” provides for generating energy from
power. If there is an outage, or when renewable resources
power prices peak, users can “go off
grid” and use a private generator to
produce power.
With access to distributed
generation resources within a
smart grid, utilities can configure
existing systems to meet peak
power needs and diversify the range
of energy resources to increase the
reliability of energy flow.
