This week we launched our new whitepaper exploring the myriad benefits of distributed energy resources—we use the term DERs. We'll be communicating about DERs a great deal in the coming weeks, but we figured it best to start the conversation with a look at what that term—DERs—actually means.

Take a look...

Distributed energy resources encompass a diverse range of small-scale, decentralized energy technologies and systems that can generate, store and manage electricity near the point of use. These resources provide an agile and flexible approach to energy production and consumption, often situated closer to consumers than traditional centralized power plants. The key types of DERs include:

• Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems: Convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells, commonly installed on rooftops or as solar farms.

• Wind Turbines: Harness the kinetic energy of wind to generate electricity, available in various sizes from residential to utility-scale installations.

• Energy Storage Systems: Store excess energy, typically in batteries, for later use, enhancing grid reliability and mitigating renewable energy intermittency.

• Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Systems (Cogeneration): Simultaneously produce electricity and useful thermal energy from a single fuel source, improving energy efficiency.

• Microgrids: Localized energy systems that can operate independently or alongside the main grid, often integrating multiple DERs for grid resilience and reliability.

• Hydropower: Generate electricity from flowing water sources, particularly valuable in regions with abundant water resources.

• Geothermal Systems: Utilize heat from the Earth's subsurface for both heating and electricity generation.

• Fuel Cells: Convert chemical energy from fuels like hydrogen into electricity, offering high efficiency and versatility.

• Biomass and Bioenergy: Derive energy from organic materials such as wood, agricultural residues, and waste, used in biomass power plants and biogas facilities.

• Flexible Loads: Enable the reduction or shifting of electricity consumption during peak periods, enhancing grid stability and efficiency.

• Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure: Support EV charging with public stations and home chargers, influencing energy demand and usage patterns.

LEARN HOW YOUR ENTERPRISE CAN BENEFITS FROM DERS. CLICK HERE TO READ OUR NEW WHITEPAPER.