Distributed generation allows energy to be generated close to the point of use, giving customers choice in their energy sources. Customers can generate their own power and sell excess back to utilities, representing a new relationship. Hybrid systems combine renewable sources like solar and wind with traditional energy. Within a smart grid, utilities can access distributed generation to meet peak needs and increase reliability through diversified energy resources. For customers, distributed generation supports lower costs, reduced fossil fuel reliance, and more renewable use.

1. Energy, Utilities & Chemicals the way we do it
Distributed Generation:
Giving Customers a Choice
in Energy Sources
On a traditional power grid, energy On a smart grid with distributed
generation and distribution were generation, energy can be generated
relatively simple. The generator close to the point of use. Those who
produced electricity at a plant, and the produce this power have the option
transmission system carried electricity to “resell” it to the utility, and this
from the plant to substations. At the exchange represents a new way to
substation, the voltage was reduced and generate and distribute energy and
electricity continued to travel through a new kind of relationship between
the distribution system, where utilities and customers.
transformers converted it into the
voltage used by customers. At the Hybrid Systems Combine
customer’s site, electricity passed Renewable and Traditional
through the meter, which recorded Energy Sources
usage as electricity was consumed. Solar, wind, and thermal energy are
renewable sources that can generate
Energy flow was essentially one way. energy “close to point of use.” Unlike
With distributed generation, a generator major power stations, technology
installed “behind the meter” provides for generating energy from
power. If there is an outage, or when renewable resources
power prices peak, users can “go off
grid” and use a private generator to
produce power.
With access to distributed
generation resources within a
smart grid, utilities can configure
existing systems to meet peak
power needs and diversify the range
of energy resources to increase the
reliability of energy flow.

2. www.capgemini.com/smartenergy
can be installed in small increments, Why is Capgemini’s n Offers a unique, turn-key solution
and it has extremely low ongoing costs. Smart Energy Services called Managed Business Services,
Unique? which has a usage-based pricing model
Though renewable energy resources Capgemini’s Smart Energy Services are n Offers strategic relationships and
are less predictable than the power real, in the market now, and already
delivery experience from an
generated by traditional means, hybrid making a difference for utilities around
ecosystem of long-standing global
systems can utilize both renewable and the world. We support utilities and their
technology partners
traditional power. customers by delivering sustainable
energy efficiency and environmental
For more information about
With access to distributed generation solutions—transforming utility
Smart Energy Services, please visit
resources within a smart grid, utilities operations and customer fulfillment.
www.capgemini.com/smartenergy.
can configure existing systems to meet Our commitment is strong with more
peak power needs and diversify the than 7,000 professionals dedicated to
range of energy resources to increase the utility sector.
the reliability of energy flow.
Capgemini’s Smart Energy Services:
For customers, distributed generation
n Has extensive utilities industry
supports reduced energy costs and
experience with an unequaled track
reliance on fossil fuels as well as
record for successful innovation and
increased use of renewable resources.
delivery. We offer our clients lessons
learned and a growing knowledge base
Within the smart grid, integrated into
the smart home and monitored by n Leads the industry in the delivery
smart metering, distributed generation of smart energy solutions in mass
is a new model for energy distribution deployment and production
and use. For the first time, energy flows
to users as well as away from users,
enabling utilities and their customers
to work together to ensure that power
is high quality, reliable, green, and
low-cost. About Capgemini and the
Collaborative Business Experience
®
Capgemini, one of which aims to get the right balance of
the world’s foremost the best talent from multiple locations,
providers of consulting, technology working as one team to create and
and outsourcing services, enables its deliver the optimum solution for clients.
clients to transform and perform through Present in more than 30 countries,
technologies. Capgemini provides its Capgemini reported 2009 global revenues
clients with insights and capabilities that of EUR 8.4 billion (approximately USD
boost their freedom to achieve superior $11.6 billion) and employs 90,000 people
results through a unique way of worldwide.
working, the Collaborative Business
ExperienceTM. The Group relies on its More information is available at
global delivery model called Rightshore®, www.capgemini.com/smartenergy
019_EUC_DSTGNFLR_030110
Gord Reynolds
Practice Leader
Smart Energy Services
gord.reynolds@capgemini.com
+1 416.732.2200
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