Synopsis

Achieving Net Zero requires significant contributions from Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), including energy storage, electric vehicles (EVs), and flexible demand management. These DERs not only enhance the reliability and resilience of power systems but also increase the ability to integrate higher shares of renewable energy.

The primary role of energy storage is to balance supply and demand by storing surplus renewable generation and releasing it during peak demand periods. EVs, meanwhile, contribute to decarbonizing the transport sector and can also serve as mobile storage units, supporting the grid through Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technologies. Flexible demand plays an equally vital role by shifting electricity consumption patterns to better align with renewable generation, enabled by demand response programs, smart load control, and digital technologies such as smart meters.

The integration of these three DER components not only reduces the carbon footprint but also serves as a key enabler for building a flexible, reliable, and sustainable power system, paving the way for a truly clean energy future.