Marcelo Algrain, Ph.D.

Engineering Technical Steward
Electric Power Division

ABSTRACT

The term Distributed Generation (DG) encompasses a wide range of electric power generation sources - from a residential rooftop photovoltaic resource to a large wind farm.

Hence, the impact of DG varies significantly depending on the context with its neighboring utility. In parts of the world lacking major infrastructure, the impact of DG takes on major proportions. They create oases of power fueling economic growth, improving quality of life, and enabling basic needs that most of us take for granted. In other cases DG impact is not as dramatic, as they may be seamlessly integrated into the local utility making their presence somewhat stealthy, although their absence could be highly noticeable.

The aim of this paper is to raise awareness on the diversity of issues associated with DG applications. To that end, several DG installations are reviewed here within.;

INTRODUCTION

Distributed Generation (DG) is commonly defined as electric power generation facilities that are not directly connected to a bulk power transmission system [1]. They cover a multitude of energy sources, fuels, and conversion methods to produce electricity through photovoltaic arrays, wind turbines, fuel cells, microturbines, liquid and gas-fueled reciprocating engines, etc.

Given the wide variety of sources, it is natural that specific impacts associated with DG would vary with type and application. However, there are many common threads on how DG benefits the customers they serve and society at large. This is demonstrated in this paper through several examples, giving testimonials of the positive impact these installations have.