Distributed energy resources (DER) are small-scale power generation and energy storage systems located close to where electricity is consumed, rather than at centralized power plants. These resources generate, store, or manage electricity at the distribution level of the grid.
Common examples of DER include solar panels, wind turbines, battery energy storage systems (BESS), electric vehicles (EVs), microgrids, and demand response systems.
DER enables a more decentralized, flexible, and resilient energy ecosystem.
Distributed Energy Resources operate by generating or storing electricity locally and either consuming it onsite or exporting excess energy back to the grid.
A typical DER setup may include:
These components allow energy to flow dynamically between the grid and end users, improving efficiency and reliability.
DER plays a critical role in modern energy systems by:
As electrification and renewable deployment increase, DER helps stabilize and modernize aging grid infrastructure.
Onsite solar generation for residential, commercial, or industrial use.
Store excess energy for later use or grid support.
Generates electricity and captures usable heat from the same process.
EV batteries can function as mobile distributed energy assets.
Adjust electricity consumption in response to grid conditions.
Traditional energy systems rely on large, centralized power plants transmitting electricity over long distances. In contrast:
DER transforms consumers into “prosumers” who can both consume and generate electricity.
DER is foundational to EV and green infrastructure because it enables:
As EV adoption increases, DER helps ensure charging infrastructure remains scalable and reliable.
Managing distributed assets across multiple locations introduces complexity, including:
Without centralized visibility, DER ecosystems can become fragmented and inefficient.
Modern CMMS and field service platforms help organizations:
This ensures DER systems operate reliably, efficiently, and at scale.
As the energy transition accelerates, Distributed Energy Resources are reshaping how electricity is generated, stored, and consumed. By decentralizing energy production and improving resilience, DER is a cornerstone of sustainable, future-ready infrastructure.