,,,Micropower at the Crossroads: Public Health and the Future of Distributed Generation

Micropower at the Crossroads: Public Health and the Future of Distributed Generation


 

Publication Date: July 2002

Publisher: Texas Public Interest Research Group Education Fund

Author(s): Tom Smith; Luke Metzger; Brad Heavner; Mark MacLeod

Research Area: Energy

Keywords: distributed generation; air pollution

Type: Report

Coverage: Texas

Abstract:

The debate over America's energy future has focused increased attention on micropower, the generation of electrical energy by homeowners and businesses near the place it is used. Micropower, also known as distributed generation (DG), increases electric system reliability--and some of these technologies are among the most environmentally friendly electricity generating technologies ever invented. However, continued reliance on some highly polluting micropower technologies poses a threat to public health. Micropower at the Crossroads explores this issue and recommends state-level standards that promote clean technologies.