Distributed Energy Resources Definition, Benefits, Disadvantages
Distributed energy resources are multiple, diverse and modular units used to manage energy through power generation, storage, regulation and distribution. This article discusses distributed energy resources definition, benefits and disadvantages, as outlined below;
-Distributed Energy Resources Definition: 5 Ways to Define Distributed Energy Resources
-Benefits of Distributed Energy Resources
-Disadvantages of Distributed Energy Resources
Distributed Energy Resources Definition: 5 Ways to Define Distributed Energy Resources
Distributed energy resource (DER) refers to any group of multiple, small components or units for electricity generation, distribution, and storage; that work simultaneously to meet energy demands in a given building or area [2].
The above is a basic description of distributed energy resources, from the perspective of their nature, constitution and relevance.
In the alternative distributed energy resources definition below; some examples of energy resources included in DERs are mentioned;
Distributed energy resources are small-scale power generation systems that usually include renewable energy resources like wind, geothermal, solar, and hydro; which work together with other small-scale components for effective integration, unification and distribution of power.
As implied above, renewable energy plays a major role in the configuration, operation, context, and overall concept of distributed energy resources.
The above-listed may also be referred to as examples of distributed energy resources in some contexts, alongside others like batteries, renewable fuel, and energy management systems.
This can be attributed to the fact that distributed energy resources are one of the innovative concepts produced from efforts to achieve power sustainability and energy transition, among other sustainable development goals [1].
Below is yet another distributed energy resources definition, which further acknowledges the link between DER concept and sustainable development;
Distributed energy resources refer to set of integrated, small-scale equipment or systems, that produce, store, regulate, and distribute energy in a collaborative manner, in order to mitigate environmental impacts, increase energy resilience, efficiency, and conservation; as well as optimize the performance of connected systems like smart grids and microgrids.
The next distributed energy resources definition, highlights the context of use, of such resources;
Distributed energy resources are combined technological elements that may be physical (hardware-based) or virtual (software-based), and which are used to control all energy-related processes in a given residential, commercial, or industrial environment.
Lastly, the distributed energy resources definition is outlined to include specific uses of these resources;
Distributed energy resources are tools, or systems that work with each other to generate, transfer, convert, store, conserve, regulate, and distribute power.
Benefits of Distributed Energy Resources
Benefits of distributed energy resources are;
1). High flexibility
2). Rapid demand-response
3). Cost savings
4). Minimal space requirement
5). Clean energy integration
6). Energy efficiency
7). Improved performance
Disadvantages of Distributed Energy Resources
Disadvantages of distributed energy resources are;
1). Regulatory barriers
2). Higher demand for technical skill and knowledge
3). Bi-directional current transmission complexity
4). Possible power stability problems
5). Utility safety concerns
Conclusion
Distributed energy resources (DERs) are units or elements of energy systems that work to generate, convert, store, regulate, and distribute power.
Benefits of distributed energy resources are; high flexibility, rapid demand-response, cost savings, minimal space requirement, clean energy integration, energy efficiency, and improved performance.
Disadvantages of distributed energy resources are; regulatory barriers, technical skill and knowledge demand, bi-directional current transmission complexity, possible power stability problems, and utility safety concerns.
References
1). Akorede, M. F.; Hizam, H.; Pouresmaeil, E. (2010). “Distributed energy resources and benefits to the environment.” Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 14(2):724-734. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2009.10.025. (Accessed 6 December 2022).
2). Twaisan, K.; Barışçı, N. (2022). “Integrated Distributed Energy Resources (DER) and Microgrids: Modeling and Optimization of DERs.” Electronics 11(18):2816. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics11182816. (Accessed 6 December 2022).
