RNG & Fuel Efficient Distributed Generation
About Distributed Generation
Distributed generation refers to a variety of technologies that generate electricity at or near where it will be used, such as solar panels and combined heat and power. Distributed generation may serve a single structure, such as a home or business, or it may be part of a microgrid (a smaller grid that is also tied into the larger electricity delivery system), such as at a major industrial facility, a military base, or a large college campus. When connected to the electric utility’s lower voltage distribution lines, distributed generation can help support delivery of clean, reliable power to additional customers and reduce electricity losses along transmission and distribution lines.
In the residential sector, common distributed generation systems include:
-
- Solar photovoltaic panels
- Small wind turbines
- Natural-gas-fired fuel cells
- Emergency backup generators, usually fueled by gasoline or diesel fuel
In the commercial and industrial sectors, distributed generation can include resources such as:
-
- Combined heat and power systems
- Solar photovoltaic panels
- Wind
- Hydropower
- Biomass combustion or cofiring
- Municipal solid waste incineration
- Fuel cells fired by natural gas or biomass
- Reciprocating combustion engines, including backup generators, which are may be fueled by oil
Distributed Generation in the United States
The use of distributed generation units in the United States has increased for a variety of reasons, including:
-
- Renewable technologies, such as solar panels, have become cost-effective for many homeowners and businesses.
- Several states and local governments are advancing policies to encourage greater deployment of renewable technologies due to their benefits, including energy security, resiliency, and emissions reductions.
- Distributed generation systems, particularly combined heat and power and emergency generators, are used to provide electricity during power outages, including those that occur after severe storms and during high energy demand days.
- Grid operators may rely on some businesses to operate their onsite emergency generators to maintain reliable electricity service for all customers during hours of peak electricity use.
Distributed generation systems are subject to a different mix of local, state, and federal policies, regulations, and markets compared with centralized generation. As policies and incentives vary widely from one place to another, the financial attractiveness of a distributed generation project also varies.
As electric utilities integrate information and communications technologies to modernize electricity delivery systems, there may be opportunities to reliably and cost-effectively increase the use of distributed generation.
BIOFUELS
We provide a range of biofuel blends to meet your specific needs. From 5%, 10% and 20%, we deliver the right blends where they are needed.
• Biodiesel
• Renewable Diesel
• Ethanol
Biofuel blend mandates continue to change and impact fuel demands for fleets across the country. Our team stays on top of it so you don’t have to. Trust the supply experts to stay abreast of the local requirements of each location so your fleets maintain compliance across every state.
ELECTRICITY FROM GAS
Electrical generation plants come in two main forms:
Base-load electricity Base-load generation is useful where there is a stable source of fuel, such as natural, landfill or coal gas to power the generators. The generation of electricity alone typically takes place where there is no local need for heating and cooling. The power that is produced can either be exported to the local electricity grid, or alternatively be used in island mode operation to power local facilities.
Electrical peaking stations, also called peak-lopping plants, are power plants designed to help balance the fluctuating power requirements of the electricity grid. Peaking stations typically operate in standby mode, then when there is a peak in demand for power from the electricity grid; the gas engines receive a signal to commence operation.
Back up power or standby diesel engine displacement. Gas engines producing electricity can be used as a cleaner standby power source than diesel engines.
PROPANE
Propane — sometimes known as liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG — is a gas normally compressed and stored as a liquid. It is nontoxic, colorless, and virtually odorless but had an added identifying odor so it can be detected. Propane is most commonly used for space and water heating, for cooking, and as fuel for engine applications such as forklifts. And, its applications are rapidly growing due to new technology developments. When used as vehicle fuel, propane is known as propane autogas.
• Propane is an approved clean fuel listed in the 1990 Clean Air Act.
• Nearly 50,000 workers across the U.S. are employed in propane production, transportation, and distribution.
• The U.S. is propane’s leading producer.
• Propane prices are typically lower than those associated with other fuels.
PRESS RELEASE:
Conger LP Gas partners with renewable energy firms
LATTICE ENERGY SOLUTIONS
LATTICE partners are all established technology leaders in their respective businesses. We only partner with Tier-1 brands that can ensure the highest quality products, best-inclass warranties, and exceptional service.
COMBINED POWER & HEAT CASE STUDIES (CHP)
CHP technology can be deployed quickly, cost-effectively, and with few geographic limitations. CHP can use a variety of fuels, both fossil- and renewable-based.
WASTE TO ENERGY SOLUTIONS CASE STUDIES
Wastewater generated from households, industries, agricultural activities and commercial institutions contains physical, chemical and biological pollutants.
DAIRY SOLUTIONS
We help companies achieve their goals in sustainability while simultaneously enhancing profitability.
WAREHOUSING CASE STUDIES
Providing solutions such as reducing utilities costs; repurposing stranded assets like industrial sites, rooftops, and parking lots; creating power reliance and backup; and making smart buildings smarter.
MUNICIPAL & COMMERCIAL CASE STUDIES
Connect with Lattice to empower your next project: Agriculture, Commercial, Industrial, and/or Municipality.
C-PACE FUNDING FOR ENERGY PROJECTS
Commercial property assessed clean energy (C-PACE) is a tool that can finance energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements on commercial property.
REAP GRANT GUIDE
The federal government provides grants to help rural businesses go solar. It does so through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). REAP grants have given thousands of farmers and business owners in rural areas across the country the opportunity to power their businesses with solar energy projects.