Full Title: The Integrated Grid: Realizing the Full Power of Central and Distributed Energy Resources
Author(s): Electric Power Research Institute
Publisher(s): Electric Power Research Institute
Publication Date: February 1, 2014
Full Text: Download Resource
Description (excerpt):
The electric power system has evolved through large, central power plants interconnected via grids of transmission lines and distribution networks that feed power to customers. The system is beginning to change – rapidly in some areas – with the rise of distributed energy resources (DER) such as small natural gas-fueled generators, combined heat and power plants, electricity storage, and solar photovoltaics (PV) on rooftops and in larger arrays connected to the distribution system. In many settings DER already have an impact on the operation of the electric power grid . Through a combination of technological improvements, policy incentives, and consumer choices in technology and service, the role of DER is likely to become more important in the future.