Embedded generation and the public electricity system

Embedded generation is not a new phenomena. Although individually they are relatively small in size, their combined effect can be important due to their large number. For this reason the UK National Grid Company (NGC) is becoming more concerned. The public electricity suppliers (PES) are also concerned as the generation is connected directly to their system. The PES are obliged to provide a reasonable quotation to connect a generation developer. The PES would need to undertake some planning/design work as the integration of new generation may involve reinforcement, reconfiguration, asset replacement or a combination of two or more of these aspects. As a leading UK engineering consultancy, Kennedy and Donkin is regularly involved in generation schemes. Over the years the company has represented all of the above mentioned parties and its staff are well placed to understand the viewpoint of all concerned. This paper attempts to present a balanced summary of the viewpoint of the principal parties. Two specific embedded generation schemes are also described to illustrate some of the issues