Distributed and CentralGenerationTechnology

 Dr. Manoj Kumar Nigam

(Professor & HOD)

Department of Electrical Engineering

Kalinga University, Naya Raipur (C.G.)

manoj.nigam@kalingauniversity.ac.in

Solar panels, photovoltaic cells, microturbines, wind turbines, combustion gas turbines, biomass gasification, and a number of other small, renewable energy source-based generating units are examples of Distributed Generation(DG). One of the main areas of interest for researchers these days is distributed generation, a technology that has developed over the years. Compared to traditional power generation methods, distributed generation offers the advantage of being able to be installed at locations where power requirements have increased. Additionally, it is not feasible to build new power generation stations every few kilometers. The benefit of this technology is  environmental friendly, meaning that it doesn’t create any hazardous byproducts.

Another benefit of distributed generation is its low cost and ability to use unconventional energy sources like solar and wind power. It also improves reliability and lowers losses, among other things. Although distributed generation has many benefits, we must reconsider our power generation techniques in order to fully realize the potential of distributed generation. These days, distributed generation is a crucial component of distributed energy resources, which also includes energy storage. The size and placement of distributed generation within the network to reduce transmission and distribution losses have already been the subject of extensive research in the past.

The term “Central Generation,” or “CG,” refers to the process of producing electricity using large, fossil fuel-fired power plants to supply bulk power and steam, which powers turbine generators. Large hydro turbines are also utilized occasionally. Large infrastructures need to be managed at great expense due to these massive plants. Central power plants may experience unpredictability and instability in the face of unforeseen circumstances and are frequently open to assaults. Given the constraints of CG with regard to effectiveness, environmental effect, and stability to support them, scientists, engineers, and decision-makers ought to have taken into consideration alternatives for renewable energy sources. Both distributed and centralized generated grid systems have advantages and disadvantages. Thus, this article’s goals are to list the grids’ advantages and disadvantages as well as discuss the difficulties they present. Distributed Generation (DG) is the best option that may increase the sustainability, resilience, and dependability of the current grid structure, according to this analysis.

                                             FIGURE 1: Distributed and Central  Generation System

Some benefits of integrating distributed generation into a distribution network include improved voltage profile, reduced loss, reduced congestion, dependability, and power quality.The advantages of distributed generation in terms of radial distribution system loss minimization. There can be less line losses with distributed generation. The three main factors that affect line loss mitigation are operating power factor, optimal position, and distributed generation rating.