Applications, evaluations and supportive strategies of distributed energy systems: A review

Abstract The solution to energy shortage and environmental contamination greatly relies on efficient energy technologies and the introduction of renewable energy resources. Distributed energy system (DES) – a type of system located at or near its end-users and characterized by multi-generation and an emphasis on clean energy and low emissions – thus has been increasingly attracting attention over these years. However, there is yet no systematic analysis for DES about its various applications, multi-facet appraisal, and endeavors from different regions to promote its development. Therefore, this study reviews the related researches published over the past decade and mainly focuses on three perspectives of DES, i.e. applications, evaluations, and supporting strategies of different regions. The application is detailed from the individual building level, district level, and region level. The individual building-level application includes house-level application and industrial building-level application, while the district-level application includes neighborhood-level application and community-level application. The methods and criteria for DES performance evaluation are summarised. The criteria are discussed from energetic, environmental, and economic aspects. Different supportive strategies are analyzed in several developed countries and developing countries. Finally, several potential challenges faced by DES development are presented, based on the above analysis of applications, evaluations, and strategies. This review hopes to offer some references for future research on DES.