As the cost of traditional baseload generation rises and renewable energy prices fall, utilities are increasingly exploring solar and wind power. Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) are at the forefront of this shift. They offer new opportunities to enhance renewable generation and protect our environment.
By embracing new technology and applying lessons from experience, utilities can stay relevant in a rapidly evolving energy landscape. DER is not just about innovation—it’s about protecting our future.
DERs are often small in scale but large in impact. While they operate locally, their contributions to the grid are far-reaching. Most DER connections rely on solar or wind energy. Once connected to the grid, these sources become powerful assets that support environmental goals.
However, integrating DER is more complex than flipping a switch. Many developers underestimate the planning and infrastructure needed. In some cases, utilities must install new collector substations to make the connection possible. With the right strategy, DER plays a critical role in a resilient and sustainable energy future.
Power Grid Engineering (PGE) recently completed an EPC project involving three solar collector substations. We partnered with a utility and independent power producers (IPPs) who had secured contracts to supply solar energy.
Power Grid Engineering can assist our utility clients in navigating these new solar and wind power prospects because of our experience with collector substations. To ensure that DER continues to be crucial to protecting our future and yours, whether it is with centralized generation or DER in general, DER: Protecting Our Future is necessary.
