ABSTRACT
Distributed generation, includes the application of small generators, typically ranging in capacity from 15 to 10,000 kW, scattered throughout a power system, to provide the electric power needed by electrical consumers. As ordinarily applied, the term distributed generation includes all use of small electric power generators, whether located on the utility system, at the site of a utility customer, or at an isolated site not connected to the power grid. The bulk of electric power used worldwide is produced at central station power plants, most of them utilizing large, fossil-fuel combustion or nuclear boilers to produce steam that drives steam turbine generators. The plant efficiency of most existing large central generation units is in the range of 28 to 35%, meaning that they convert between 28 to 35% of the energy in their fuel into useful electric power. Most power generators use some sort of thermal cycle to convert fossil or solar power to electricity.
