Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) are power-generating or energy-storage technologies that either supplement the traditional grid or offer alternative electricity sources. While most DERs use clean or renewable energy, they can operate on any primary fuel. Battery energy storage, for example, is now essential in DER systems. These batteries store excess energy and deliver it back to the grid during high-demand periods.
Some DER definitions even include technologies that help manage load fluctuations, such as smart thermostats and demand response devices. As renewable energy and decentralized power generation grow, DER availability and reliability have become critical to the modern electric utility landscape.
A few years ago, power systems depended almost entirely on large, centralized generation. These plants—powered by coal, gas, or nuclear—fed electricity through a one-directional grid. Today, that model is shifting.
Utilities are now integrating decentralized sources like solar farms, wind farms, and behind-the-meter storage systems into the power grid. These modern DERs often use two-way power flow, turning the traditional grid into a more dynamic, responsive system.
Advancements in green energy technology, grid efficiency, and cost-effectiveness are accelerating this transition. Utilities and developers are increasingly adopting DERs to improve grid stability, boost reliability, and diversify power generation.
If you work for an electric utility, you have probably seen that as power distribution technology advances, the fastest-growing DER in the sector has increased. In my experience, the following three areas have experienced the most increases:
1. Solar
Both utility-scale and behind-the-meter solar installations give utilities flexible generation options beyond traditional sources. Solar DERs help meet peak demand, support grid reliability, and provide a cleaner energy mix.
At Reesha Tech, we’ve recently worked with several utility clients to deploy solar DER connections across their service areas.
2. Wind
Wind-based DERs are gaining popularity across the U.S. These systems offer a clean, scalable, and cost-effective alternative to fossil fuel-based generation.
As more utilities seek to expand wind capacity, Reesha Tech continues to support wind DER interconnections, similar to our work with solar.
3. Microgrids
Microgrids combine multiple generation sources—such as solar and wind—into localized systems. These networks can operate independently and disconnect from the main grid during outages or high-risk events.
Though complex, microgrids provide greater energy flexibility, support grid resilience, and are growing rapidly as a subclass of DER.
What are your intentions to keep expanding distributed energy resources while bolstering system stability, dependability, and power generating variety, and how are your utilities implementing DER?
