This study addresses the integration of decentralized energy technologies (DETs) into future electric power systems. The principal objective is to gain a perspective on the potential benefits and problem areas that might arise in meeting future energy needs through a combination of conventional electric generating plants and small-scale, dispersed energy conversion devices. The utility viewpoint is important because many of the potential benefits of DET systems either derive from or are dependent upon an interaction between a DET and a utility system. A thorough evaluation of decentralized energy technologies should, therefore, consider the utility requirements for integration and also consider the impacts of integrating DETs into the utility system.
OSTI Identifier 6500684 Research organization: International Systems Consultants, Los Altos, CA (USA). Research organization: Systems Control, Inc., Palo Alto, CA (USA).