Unlike traditional "centralized" systems, distributed energy relies on small power-generating technologies like solar panels or ultra-efficient natural-gas turbines built near the point of energy consumption to supplement or displace grid-distributed electricity.

FORBES: The Answer To The Energy Problem

Micro-grids are independent controllable and defined systems including electric generating and consuming assets that can be connected to or disconnected from the larger power grid, and they are becoming more popular.

FORBES: With All Eyes On Hurricane Sandy, A Good Time to Evaluate Micro-Grids