THE IMPACT OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF DISTRIBUTED GENERATION ON THE SECURITY OF ELECTRICITY SUPPLY

Abstract

This article examines the role of distributed generation as a key factor in enhancing the security of electricity supply in Ukraine amid military threats and damage to energy infrastructure. It is shown that the development of small-scale generating capacities connected to distribution networks contributes to increasing the resilience of the power system through the diversification of generation sources, reducing dependence on large power plants, and lowering the risks of large-scale blackouts in the event of damage to the transmission grid or centralized generation facilities. Particular attention is paid to the role of distributed generation in ensuring autonomous power supply to critical infrastructure facilities, specifically hospitals, water supply and heating systems, as well as the ability of local energy “islands” to function in the event of a disruption to the integrated power system. This article proposes an indicator titled “Development of Distributed Generation,” which can be used as a component of a system for monitoring the security of electricity supply. The indicator is based on the ratio of the installed capacity of distributed generation facilities to the region’s estimated electricity demand. The proposed approach involves calculating the indicator at the regional level, followed by aggregating the results to determine the indicator’s aggregate value at the national level. This allows for assessing not only the overall level of distributed generation development but also identifying regional imbalances in its development. Based on statistical data on electricity consumption by region in Ukraine and information from the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine regarding the installed capacity of distributed generation facilities, the indicator was calculated for the regions of Ukraine. The study results determined the aggregate value of the distributed generation development indicator for Ukraine at 0.43, indicating significant potential for the further development of local generating capacity and the need for its more even distribution among regions. The results obtained can be used to establish a system for the regular monitoring of distributed generation development.