Distributed Generation

Distributed Generation (DG) has an essential role to play in reducing emissions and improving security of supply because it can use relatively small, localised, sources of fuel (often renewable) to generate electricity, with or without heat. How much DG can be tolerated on each voltage level of a network and concerns about stability and intermittency are among the issues discussed in this stream.

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Distributed Generation

Submitted by David Chapman on Tue, 2008-05-13 13:54.

Distributed Generation, or dispersed generation, (DG), refers to the local generation of electricity (and the cogeneration of heat) often, but not essentially, from renewable sources. It offers the opportunity to generate electricity from locally available fuels that might otherwise be unexploited, so helping to reduce the environmental effects of electricity production and improve security of supply.

Types of DG discusses the various types of DG, generally in terms of the energy input.

Interconnection and Integration of DG to the grid is an important consideration, both from a technical and economic perspective. As penetration of DG progresses, it will have a significant impact on network design and control.

Microgeneration refers to DG on a scale suitable for one or a few residences. This page gives links to reports, connection requirements and case studies.

Future Grids considers how the grid will develop in the future to accommodate the characteristics of DG.

Energy Policy and Regulation covers the support mechanisms for DG because of its role in reducing the consumption of carbon-based fuels and their environmental impact.

The Case studies section contains some practical examples of DG installations.

For an overview, see Distributed Generation and Environmental effects from IET.