Distributed Energy Generation (DG)

1. Distributed Energy Generation (DG) Photovoltaic Energy generator Wind Catalytic surface Electrospray injectors Combustors DG increases efficiency to 55% compared to 30% from conventional methods (Sen,2006) Smaller units ( e.g., wind mill < 100 KW, Energy generator with micro-combustion < 5-10 KW) can improve efficiency further

2. Distributed Manufacturing for Distributed Energy Generation • Specific Challenge • Reduce unit manufacturing and transportation cost, Improve energy efficiency • Idea for Meeting the Challenge • Distributed manufacturing of small-scale renewable and non-conventional energy generation process equipment and accessories • Approach • Develop modular and autonomous systems including machines and factories to produce small energy generation units • What is the Manufacturing Challenge? • Machining complex features in a variety of materials including metals, ceramics and composites with a high relative accuracy • Developing smart plug-and-play architecture for distributed manufacturing systems • Utility requirements may best be provided through a “bus-like” structure • expendable resources will need to be replenished with simple cartridge-based refills, including tooling, materials, and packaging • Sensor-based diagnostic systems with associated maintenance systems