Weighing the Advantages of Distributed and Centralized Energy Storage

As the amount of electricity generated by solar and other distributed energy resources increases to substantial levels, there becomes a greater need for technologies such as energy storage that can help grid operators enhance the operational functionality of their assets as well as provide customers with a platform to better manage their energy use. When many energy professionals hear the term “distributed storage,” they envision a large battery-based centralized system, connected either in “front” or “behind” the utility side of the meter, and more than likely including a solar array as the power generation source.