Energy decentralisation is a unique and recent concept which focuses on the consumers taking control of their energy supply and future. Better understood, as energy management from sources off the conventional main grid.
The system entails millions of small plants generating powers. In this case, instead of having large power plants, we simply make use of micro-renewables in forms of geothermal, biomass or solar panels.
A Decentralised System brings energy “pro-consumer” – consumers and real producer in a “melting pot” and as joint energy generators, this doesn’t mean larger power plants go extinct; rather they are supplemented.
It benefits to the rural dwellers a lot
Decentralised systems play a vital role in continual energy supplies and distribution, and it enables rural and remote areas which are off-grids to access electricity. It also makes energy affordable to these rural dwellers.
The third-world countries would derive most benefits from these systems as they offer long-term power supply.
It's a way of generating, storing and distributing energy in small, grid-connected systems, a sharp contrast to the conventional power supply such as that of nuclear-powered plants, hydroelectricity dams, or gas turbines which provide electricity in a centralised way and usually require it transmitted over a long distance.
How we generate and consume energy is very crucial to its sustainability, in fact, how well we manage it will determine the level of our economic well-being.
Energy sources from fossil fuels are unsustainable, hence the use of renewable sources such as biomass, solar power, wind power or geothermal power as additional sources of energy. The decentralised system makes ample use of the sources, thereby making it a viable future system.
Advantages of decentralised system
- Decentralisation is a very cost effective means of energy transmission, utilisation, sustainability and security.
- The decentralised system usually reduces transmission losses.
- Consumers are not overly dependent on the few and remote power sources for energy supply.
- It offers competitive prices than the traditional ones - whose price can be so daunting, thus scaling down the cost of power for the consumers.
- It is a good way of meeting carbon cuts requirement of the Paris Climate Change accord as it lowers carbon emissions.
Already, most housing associations, local authorities, and private sector are already decentralising their power system, especially in the developed world. It is a concept expected to gather momentum in the coming future.
