Electricity Distribution Networks in the Decentralisation Era: Rethinking Economics and Regulation

“As the transition to a low-carbon electrified future gains momentum, the electricity distribution networks play an increasingly critical role in delivering and receiving electricity flows to/from consumers, many of whom may become prosumers. By focusing on the central role of the distribution networks, this timely book offers new insights on a topical issue."
–Fereidoon Sioshansi, Menlo Energy Economics
“This book gives an excellent non-technical overview of topical developments in the economic and regulatory environment of electricity distribution networks. The authors contribute many novel ideas to the current debate. A source of inspiration for researchers and policymakers.”

–Professor Gert Brunekreeft, Jacobs University Bremen
This book explores the changing economics, regulations, and operations of electricity distribution networks. It highlights the central challenges and opportunities caused by the rise of decentralisation paradigm in the power system within this segment of the electricity supply chain. As decarbonisation objectives continue to transform the power sector, the distribution system experiences an increased penetration of energy and flexibility resources that come from a variety of sizes, technologies, and capabilities. This makes traditional approaches to economic, regulation and operation of electricity distribution networks obsolete.

This book aims to provide insights into the ways which decarbonisation, decentralisation and digitalisation trends in the electricity sector will eventually shape future of distribution grids. It will be relevant to students, researchers, and policymakers interested in energy economics, the political economy of energy, and the electricity sector.
Rahmatallah Poudineh is a Senior Research Fellow and Director of Research at the Oxford Institute of Energy Studies.

Christine Brandstätt is a Visiting Research Fellow at the Oxford Institute of Energy Studies and Assistant Professor with the Copenhagen School of Energy Infrastructure at Copenhagen Business School.

Farhad Billimoria is a Visiting Research Fellow at the Oxford Institute of Energy Studies.