ABSTRACT
Distributed generation (DG) has emerged as a viable alternative to conventional central station power production. This chapter discusses natural gas-fueled distributed generation technologies, focusing on advanced industrial turbines and microturbines, reciprocating engines, and fuel cells. Each of these systems has the capability to improve power reliability and reduce environmental impacts at lower overall costs. Market barriers, such as the lack of standardized utility interconnection protocols, environmental permitting complexities, and public unfamiliarity with distributed generation technologies, have interfered with successful market applications. However, studies indicate that there is substantial growth potential for DG in the steel, petroleum, chemical, forest products, and other industries, as well as in commercial buildings, government facilities, hospital complexes, industrial parks, multi-family buildings, and school campuses. This chapter will show that with continued support distributed generation will play a key role in energy production in the next millennium.
