How can distributed generation contribute to resilience during extreme weather events?

Distributed generation significantly enhances resilience during extreme weather events primarily by providing localized power sources. This decentralization means that energy production occurs closer to where it is consumed, reducing reliance on a centralized grid that can be vulnerable to failure during severe storms or other disruptive events.

When communities have access to distributed generation resources, such as solar panels or small wind turbines, they can maintain power even if the main grid goes down. This localized power supply can support critical services, such as hospitals and emergency responders, thereby fostering overall community resilience.

In contrast, relying solely on centralized energy sources can lead to widespread outages during extreme weather, as a single disruption can affect large areas. Similarly, increasing energy prices or eliminating the need for energy storage does not address the fundamental issue of maintaining power availability and reliability when faced with the challenges posed by unpredictable weather patterns. Therefore, localized power sources stand out as an effective strategy for mitigating the impacts of extreme weather on energy resilience.