Decentralization
A Decentralized Grid That Distributes Renewable Energy to All
The growth of renewable energy means that we are not just passive consumers of energy – our roofs and properties are directly contributing energy to the grid. We need new ways to manage the decentralized electric grid that formalizes the two-way flow of energy and balances supply and demand.
How is a Decentralized Grid Similar to a Natural Ecosystem?
The Natural Ecosystem | The Grid of the Future |
---|---|
Species diversity | Diversity in grid-connected devices |
DNA-driven brains | Distributed intelligence |
Eat or be eaten | Simple market constructs |
Natural selection creates population stability | Feedback loop creates grid stability |
Natural selection evolution | Continuous improvement drives grid adaptability and resilience |
Beneficial Electrification Cannot Move Forward Without Improving Our Electrical Grid
The Grid of the Past
- Inflexible
- Regulated monopoly sets costs
- Price is not subject to demand
- One way
- Central decision making only
The Grid of the Future
- Consumer maintains control of both supply and demand
- Scalable Flexible designs handles multiple sources of energy
- Easily accommodates variable loads
- Decisions made locally
- Optimizes use of existing infrastructure