Distributed energy generation and sustainable development

Conventionally, power plants have been large, centralized units. A new trend is developing toward distributed energy generation, which means that energy conversion units are situated close to energy consumers, and large units are substituted by smaller ones. A distributed energy system is an efficie...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Renewable & sustainable energy reviews 2006-12, Vol.10 (6), p.539-558
Main Authors: Alanne, Kari, Saari, Arto
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Degree of decentralization
Distributed energy generation
Economic data
Electric energy
Energy
Energy economics
Energy policy
Energy system
Energy. Thermal use of fuels
Exact sciences and technology
General, economic and professional studies
Installations for energy generation and conversion: thermal and electrical energy
Reliability
Sustainable development
Sustainable development Reliability Energy system Distributed energy generation Degree of decentralization
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Summary:Conventionally, power plants have been large, centralized units. A new trend is developing toward distributed energy generation, which means that energy conversion units are situated close to energy consumers, and large units are substituted by smaller ones. A distributed energy system is an efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly alternative to the traditional energy system. In this article, we will first discuss the definitions of a distributed energy system. Then we will evaluate political, economic, social, and technological dimensions associated with regional energy systems on the basis of the degree of decentralization. Finally, we will deal with the characteristics of a distributed energy system in the context of sustainability. This article concludes that a distributed energy system is a good option with respect to sustainable development.
ISSN:1364-0321
1879-0690
DOI:10.1016/j.rser.2004.11.004