Distributed energy resources

Definition

Distributed energy resources (DER) refer to small-scale power generation or storage technologies that are located close to the point of consumption. These resources can include solar panels, wind turbines, battery storage systems, and combined heat and power systems. DER plays a crucial role in enhancing energy resilience, enabling microgrid stability, and providing backup power during outages, particularly as the demand for cleaner and more reliable energy increases.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Distributed energy resources can enhance the reliability of the electrical grid by providing localized generation and reducing transmission losses.
2. The integration of DER into the grid can improve overall system resilience by allowing for rapid recovery during outages and emergencies.
3. Battery storage systems as part of DER can store excess energy generated during low-demand periods for use during peak demand times.
4. Regulatory frameworks are evolving to support the growth of distributed energy resources, allowing for incentives and compensation mechanisms for consumers generating their own energy.
5. DERs contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by promoting the use of renewable energy sources and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.

Review Questions

• How do distributed energy resources contribute to the stability of microgrids?
  • Distributed energy resources enhance microgrid stability by providing local generation capacity and reducing dependence on centralized power sources. This localized approach allows microgrids to effectively manage fluctuations in demand and supply, ensuring reliable power delivery even during grid disturbances. Furthermore, by integrating various DER technologies like solar panels and battery systems, microgrids can maintain operation autonomously, improving overall resilience.
• Discuss the role of distributed energy resources in enhancing energy resilience strategies within communities.
  • Distributed energy resources play a pivotal role in enhancing community energy resilience strategies by enabling localized power generation and storage capabilities. During extreme weather events or grid failures, communities equipped with DERs can maintain essential services by operating independently from the main grid. This capability not only ensures a continuous power supply but also allows communities to recover more swiftly from disruptions, making them less vulnerable to external shocks.
• Evaluate the impact of distributed energy resources on black start procedures in power systems.
  • The integration of distributed energy resources significantly alters black start procedures by providing additional options for restoring power after a complete outage. Traditional black start methods rely on large generators to restart the grid; however, with DERs such as battery storage systems and small-scale renewable sources, power systems can initiate recovery processes more flexibly and efficiently. This shift not only shortens recovery times but also enhances grid reliability by diversifying restart capabilities and reducing the burden on central facilities.

Related terms

Microgrid: A localized grid that can operate independently or in conjunction with the main power grid, often incorporating various distributed energy resources.

Demand Response: A strategy that encourages consumers to reduce or shift their electricity usage during peak periods, often supported by distributed energy resources.

Energy Storage Systems:

Technologies that store energy for later use, such as batteries, which are often integral to distributed energy resources for balancing supply and demand.