Distributed Renewable Generation: The Trifecta of Energy Solutions to Curb Carbon Emissions, Reduce Pollutants and Empower Ratepayers

Shannon M. Baker-Branstetter, Georgetown University

Abstract

On-site construction of renewable power generation provides numerous environmental and economic benefits. Renewable resources’ advantages over fossil fuels include dramatically lower life-cycle carbon emissions, minimal air and water pollution, domestic energy security, and energy price stability. However, two major hurdles for developing renewable resources for electricity generation are the cost and administrative burdens of transmission expansion to bridge the distance between the location of where renewable resources are located and where electricity is needed. Distributed renewable generation (DRG) is generation produced on-site or nearby to where the electricity is consumed. DRG reduces the need for new transmission lines to accommodate renewable generation and empowers individuals, schools, community groups, and businesses to generate their own renewable power. The following paper describes the benefits of and barriers facing DRG and recommends steps that States, Congress and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission should take to reduce these barriers.