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What is The Grid?

The grid is the current centralized infrastructure that brings power from power plants to homes. When we depend on the grid, we depend on only a few large central power generators. With distributed generators, we have more redundancy and, therefore, higher probability that the power will stay on.

The electrical infrastructure in place today is a complex system pieced together over the past 100 years. It is aging and interconnected, which can spread power outages many miles away from their source. As the demand for power increases, so do concerns about the grid's reliability.

Distributed, or decentralized, power generation involves locating sources of power near demand. Fuel cell power plants are well suited for distributed generation.

Distributed generation powered by fuel cell systems could mean:

• No more blackouts and brownouts - even if they do occur, they don't spread
• Increased energy efficiency when energy is produced close to point of use (no loss of energy during transport)
• Improved power quality
• More affordable generation and an end to price spikes
• Tighter emission standards
• Fewer power lines

In the near future, fuel cell generators won't replace conventional power plants, but will be used in conjunction with the grid. If the power goes out, the fuel cell generator will kick in.

Energy companies can use fuel cells to minimize system load during peak hours, reducing energy costs for all customers. The fuel cell generator could also be used to supplement the grid power on a daily basis. In some situations, heat from the generator can be used for water and space heating - an approach that's far more efficient than the current power grid.