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Content archived on 2024-06-16

Distributed Generation: Its Impact on Electricity Networks from an SME perspective

Objective

Distributed generation, the connection of small-scale, usually renewable energy, generators to local distribution networks is likely to become increasingly common as the European Union's member states strive to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and nuclear power. Although distributed generation can be found in some locations, notably Combined Heat and Power (CHP) units, its uptake has been hindered by several key problems. irst, buildings with distributed generators installed have to be able to export energy to their distribution network operator (DNO) as well as import. Distribution networks were not designed for two-way flow and the performance of these networks with bidirectional energy flow is not well understood. Second, due to problems with metering these flows, it is often not economically viable to install distributed generators. SMEs are at a particularly disadvantage, as they do not have the financial resources to improve their understanding of the technology.

This project proposes to address this problem in the following ways:
- A detailed prenormative study of the problem, with particular regard to SME concerns
- An investigation into the problem of metering, in order to measure two-way flow fairly Lab- and full-scale trials to determine the effect of embedded loads on model distribution networks
- Construction of a model distribution grid to test proposed solutions·A structured training package to disseminate the results to SMEs.

The expected results of the project will be that SMEs have a much greater understanding of the problem and its solutions. Consequently, they will be able to compete on more level terms with large industrial corporations already active in the field, which will stimulate competition and innovation. The uptake of distributed generation will be encouraged by the successful completion of this project, which will bring benefits to the European environment and also create and safeguard jobs in the industry.

Keywords

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Topic(s)

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Call for proposal

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FP6-2002-SME-2
See other projects for this call

Funding Scheme

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Collective - SMEs-Collective research projects

Coordinator

BEAMA LTD.
EU contribution
No data
Total cost

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No data

Participants (13)

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