Distributed generation (DG) is becoming increasingly popular as a way to generate electricity locally, reducing reliance on centralized power grids and offering a more sustainable energy solution. This shift towards distributed generation is driven by several factors, including the increasing availability of renewable energy sources, technological advancements in power electronics, and growing concerns about climate change.
With the rise of DG, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of its integration into power systems. This involves addressing various challenges and opportunities, such as grid stability, reliability, and economic viability. The book “Integration of Distributed Generation in Power System” provides a valuable resource for professionals and researchers seeking to navigate these complexities.
This review focuses on the key aspects covered in the book, including the different types of DG technologies, their impact on power system operation, and the challenges associated with their integration. We will delve into the economic and environmental benefits of DG, as well as the technical considerations for its successful implementation.
By exploring these topics, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of distributed generation, highlighting its potential and challenges while offering valuable insights for the future of this rapidly evolving field.
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Distributed Generation: A Comprehensive Review
Distributed generation (DG) is rapidly gaining prominence as a transformative force in the power sector. It involves the generation of electricity at or near the point of consumption, typically using renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and biomass. This shift from centralized power generation to distributed systems offers a plethora of benefits, contributing to a more resilient, sustainable, and efficient energy landscape.
The integration of DG into existing power systems, however, poses unique challenges that require careful consideration. These challenges include grid stability issues, power quality concerns, and the need for effective communication and control mechanisms.
This review delves into the multifaceted world of distributed generation, examining its diverse technologies, advantages, and challenges. We explore the crucial role DG plays in shaping the future grid, highlighting successful case studies and analyzing its economic and environmental impacts. Furthermore, we discuss the regulatory frameworks that guide DG deployment and explore the exciting trends shaping the future of this burgeoning field.
By shedding light on these multifaceted aspects, this comprehensive review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of DG’s potential and the key considerations for its successful implementation.
Understanding Distributed Generation
Distributed generation (DG) refers to the production of electricity close to the point of consumption, often at the residential, commercial, or industrial level. This contrasts with traditional centralized power generation, where large power plants generate electricity and transmit it over long distances to consumers. DG systems can be powered by various renewable and non-renewable sources, including solar photovoltaic (PV), wind turbines, micro-hydropower, biogas, and even small-scale combustion engines.
The concept of DG is not entirely new, but its importance has grown significantly in recent years due to several factors, including:
- Increasing demand for electricity: Global energy demand is rising steadily, driven by population growth and economic development.
- Environmental concerns: The need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels has led to a shift towards renewable energy sources.
- Technological advancements: Improvements in renewable energy technologies, such as solar PV and wind turbines, have made them more affordable and efficient.
- Grid reliability: DG can help improve grid reliability by reducing the reliance on long-distance transmission lines and providing backup power in case of outages.
DG is transforming the way we generate and consume electricity. It’s not just about generating power locally but also about enabling a more decentralized and resilient energy system.
Types of Distributed Generation Technologies
Distributed generation (DG) encompasses a wide array of technologies that can generate electricity at or near the point of consumption. These technologies can be broadly categorized into several main types:
1. Photovoltaic (PV) Solar: This is the most common form of DG, involving converting sunlight directly into electricity using solar panels. PV systems can be installed on rooftops, in fields, or even integrated into building facades. They offer a clean and renewable energy source with minimal environmental impact.
2. Wind Energy: Wind turbines capture the kinetic energy of wind and convert it into electricity. They are often deployed in areas with consistent wind resources, such as open fields or coastal regions. Wind energy is another clean and renewable source, contributing to a sustainable energy mix.
3. Biomass Energy: This technology utilizes organic matter, such as wood, agricultural residues, or waste, to generate electricity through combustion or gasification. Biomass energy offers a sustainable way to utilize waste materials while providing a renewable energy source.
4. Geothermal Energy: Geothermal power plants harness the heat from the Earth’s interior to produce electricity. They are typically located in areas with high geothermal activity, such as volcanic regions or fault lines. Geothermal energy provides a reliable and clean energy source with minimal emissions.
5. Fuel Cells: Fuel cells generate electricity through a chemical reaction between a fuel (such as hydrogen or natural gas) and an oxidant (typically oxygen). They offer high efficiency and low emissions, making them suitable for various applications, including residential and commercial buildings.
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6. Micro-Hydro: Small-scale hydropower systems, known as micro-hydro, utilize the flow of water to generate electricity. They are often deployed in areas with rivers or streams, providing a reliable and sustainable energy source.
7. Combined Heat and Power (CHP): CHP systems, also known as cogeneration, produce both electricity and heat simultaneously from a single fuel source. This process significantly improves energy efficiency by utilizing the waste heat from electricity generation for other purposes, such as heating or cooling.
8. Energy Storage: Energy storage technologies, such as batteries or pumped hydro, play a crucial role in DG systems by storing excess electricity generated during peak periods and releasing it when demand is high. This helps to improve grid stability and enhance the reliability of DG systems.
Each of these DG technologies has unique characteristics and applications. The choice of technology depends on factors such as site location, energy demand, available resources, and economic considerations. By integrating these diverse DG technologies, communities and businesses can achieve energy independence, reduce reliance on the grid, and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.
Benefits of Distributed Generation
Distributed generation (DG) offers numerous advantages, making it a promising solution for enhancing the power grid’s efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Here’s a breakdown of some key benefits:
1. Improved Reliability and Resilience: DG systems, being located close to the load they serve, can significantly improve power supply reliability. In the event of a grid outage, DG sources can continue to provide power, minimizing disruptions to critical services and businesses. This resilience is particularly valuable in remote areas or during natural disasters.
2. Reduced Transmission and Distribution Losses: By generating power locally, DG minimizes the need for long-distance transmission lines, reducing energy losses associated with electricity transport. This efficiency translates into lower overall costs for both consumers and utilities.
3. Enhanced Grid Stability and Voltage Control: DG can help stabilize the grid by providing voltage support and reactive power compensation. This is especially crucial in areas with high load fluctuations, ensuring a more stable and reliable power supply.
4. Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: DG systems often rely on renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and biomass, which emit significantly fewer greenhouse gases compared to traditional fossil fuel-based power plants. This helps mitigate climate change and promotes a cleaner energy future.
5. Increased Energy Independence and Security: By relying on local power generation, communities can reduce their dependence on centralized power grids, enhancing their energy independence. This can also bolster national security by reducing vulnerabilities to disruptions in the electricity supply chain.
6. Economic Benefits: DG can create local jobs and stimulate economic activity in the communities where it is deployed. Moreover, by reducing transmission and distribution costs, it can lead to lower electricity bills for consumers.
7. Improved Power Quality: DG systems can contribute to better power quality by reducing voltage fluctuations and harmonics, improving the overall performance of electrical equipment and devices.
8. Enhanced Community Engagement and Empowerment: DG promotes local ownership of energy generation, empowering communities to take control of their energy needs. This can lead to greater community involvement in energy planning and decision-making.
9. Potential for Energy Storage: Many DG systems, particularly those utilizing renewable sources, can be paired with energy storage solutions like batteries, allowing for the storage and dispatch of excess energy generated during peak production periods.
10. Flexibility and Scalability: DG solutions can be customized to meet the specific needs of individual customers or communities, offering a high degree of flexibility and scalability. This adaptability allows for gradual deployment and expansion as energy demands change.
In summary, the benefits of distributed generation are numerous and far-reaching, encompassing improved reliability, efficiency, sustainability, economic benefits, and community empowerment. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, DG is poised to play a pivotal role in creating a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable power system.
Challenges of Distributed Generation Integration
Integrating distributed generation (DG) into existing power grids presents a number of challenges that require careful consideration and innovative solutions. These challenges are multifaceted and encompass technical, economic, and regulatory aspects:
Technical Challenges:
- Voltage and Frequency Control: DG units often operate independently of the central grid, which can lead to voltage fluctuations and frequency deviations. This can disrupt the grid’s stability and impact the reliability of power supply.
- Intermittency and Variability: Renewable DG sources, such as solar and wind, are inherently intermittent and variable due to weather conditions. Managing these fluctuations and ensuring grid stability requires advanced forecasting and control mechanisms.
- Grid Protection and Safety: Integrating DG units into the grid requires robust protection systems to prevent cascading failures and ensure the safety of workers and equipment. This involves coordinating protection relays, implementing fault detection mechanisms, and ensuring proper communication between DG units and the grid.
- Islanding: If a DG unit is connected to the grid and the main power supply is interrupted, it can continue to operate and create an “island” on the grid. This can be dangerous for both workers and equipment, as it can create unexpected voltage and frequency variations.
- Power Quality: DG units can introduce harmonics and other disturbances into the grid, impacting the quality of power delivered to customers. This requires measures to ensure that DG units meet power quality standards and do not negatively affect other grid components.
Economic Challenges:
- Cost of Integration: Integrating DG units into the grid can involve significant upfront costs for infrastructure upgrades, communication systems, and control equipment. Balancing these costs with the economic benefits of DG is crucial for widespread adoption.
- Grid Operator Revenue: The integration of DG can reduce the revenue of traditional grid operators as customers rely less on central power generation. This requires exploring new business models and regulatory frameworks to ensure the financial viability of grid operators.
- Market Participation: Creating fair and equitable markets for DG units to participate in is essential for encouraging their development. This involves designing mechanisms for DG units to sell excess power back to the grid and receive appropriate compensation.
Regulatory Challenges:
- Standardization and Certification: Establishing clear standards and certification processes for DG units is necessary to ensure their safety, reliability, and compatibility with the grid. This involves defining technical specifications, testing procedures, and regulatory oversight.
- Permitting and Interconnection Processes: Streamlining the permitting and interconnection processes for DG units is crucial for facilitating their deployment. This involves reducing bureaucratic hurdles, simplifying application procedures, and improving coordination between different regulatory agencies.
- Data Privacy and Security: The integration of DG units raises concerns about data privacy and cybersecurity, as they are connected to the grid and exchange information with other components. Robust security measures are needed to protect sensitive data and prevent cyberattacks.
Overcoming these challenges requires a concerted effort from stakeholders, including utilities, regulators, technology developers, and consumers. Innovative solutions, such as advanced control systems, smart grid technologies, and market reforms, will be essential for realizing the full potential of distributed generation and achieving a more resilient and sustainable energy future.
The Role of Distributed Generation in the Future Grid
Distributed generation (DG) is poised to play a transformative role in shaping the future of the electric grid. As we move towards a more decentralized and sustainable energy landscape, DG technologies are emerging as crucial enablers. The future grid will be characterized by a greater reliance on renewable energy sources, increased customer participation, and a more intelligent and responsive network. DG fits perfectly into this evolving scenario, offering a multitude of benefits and addressing some of the key challenges faced by traditional centralized power systems.
One of the most significant contributions of DG is its ability to enhance grid reliability. By diversifying energy generation sources and bringing generation closer to consumers, DG reduces the reliance on long-distance transmission lines and can help mitigate the impact of outages. Furthermore, DG can provide ancillary services like voltage support and frequency regulation, enhancing the overall stability of the grid.
The integration of DG also opens up exciting possibilities for grid modernization. With advancements in communication and control technologies, DG can be seamlessly integrated into a smart grid framework. This allows for real-time monitoring and optimization of energy generation and consumption, leading to improved efficiency and reduced energy waste.
Another crucial aspect of DG’s role in the future grid is its ability to facilitate the widespread adoption of renewable energy. By enabling localized generation of solar, wind, and other renewable sources, DG empowers communities to become more energy independent and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. This shift towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy mix is essential for mitigating climate change and achieving carbon neutrality goals.
Moreover, DG can play a vital role in empowering consumers and fostering energy independence. With the increasing availability of rooftop solar panels, battery storage, and other DG technologies, consumers can become active participants in the energy market. This empowers them to generate their own electricity, reduce their energy bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
However, the widespread adoption of DG also presents new challenges. Integrating DG into existing grids requires careful planning and coordination to ensure grid stability and avoid disruptions. Furthermore, regulatory frameworks need to be adapted to accommodate the decentralized nature of DG and encourage its deployment.
Despite these challenges, the future of DG looks bright. As technology continues to evolve and costs continue to decline, DG is expected to play an increasingly prominent role in the future grid. By embracing the benefits of DG and addressing the associated challenges, we can build a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable energy system for generations to come.
Case Studies of Successful Distributed Generation Projects
Distributed generation projects are being implemented around the world, with numerous successful examples demonstrating their potential to transform the energy landscape. These projects showcase the benefits of distributed generation, from cost savings and increased reliability to environmental sustainability and community empowerment.
1. The Brooklyn Microgrid, New York City, USA: This project, developed in response to Hurricane Sandy, serves as a model for resilient microgrids. The microgrid combines solar PV, battery storage, and natural gas generators, enabling the area to operate independently from the main grid during outages. The project has demonstrated the ability to provide reliable power to critical facilities during emergencies, ensuring continuity of services and contributing to the resilience of the local community.
2. The University of California, Berkeley, USA: The university has invested heavily in solar PV installations, creating one of the largest campus-based solar power systems in the United States. The project provides clean energy to the campus, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions. It also serves as an educational platform, showcasing the potential of distributed generation and inspiring future generations of energy professionals.
3. The Hornsdale Power Reserve, South Australia, Australia: This project features the world’s largest battery storage system, coupled with a wind farm. The battery storage provides critical ancillary services to the grid, balancing supply and demand and improving grid stability. The project has demonstrated the potential of energy storage to address the intermittency of renewable energy sources, paving the way for a more sustainable and reliable energy system.
4. The Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, Guyana: This ambitious project aims to provide clean, renewable energy to Guyana, significantly reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels. The project has been hailed as a model for sustainable development, showcasing the potential of large-scale hydropower projects to contribute to economic growth while minimizing environmental impact.
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5. The SolarCity Project, New York City, USA: SolarCity, a leading provider of solar energy solutions, has installed solar panels on rooftops across New York City, enabling residents to generate their own clean energy. The project has demonstrated the feasibility of distributed solar generation in urban environments, contributing to the city’s sustainability goals and empowering residents to take control of their energy consumption.
These case studies provide valuable insights into the successful implementation of distributed generation projects, highlighting their various benefits and demonstrating their potential to transform the energy landscape. As distributed generation continues to grow in popularity, these projects serve as inspiration and guidance for future initiatives, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient energy future.
Economic and Environmental Impacts of Distributed Generation
Distributed generation (DG) has significant economic and environmental impacts that contribute to its growing popularity. On the economic front, DG offers several advantages:
- Reduced electricity costs: By generating electricity on-site, businesses and households can decrease their reliance on the grid and potentially lower their energy bills. This is especially beneficial in areas with high electricity prices or unreliable grid connections.
- Increased energy security: DG can provide a backup power source during grid outages, reducing disruptions to businesses and critical infrastructure. This enhanced resilience is crucial for industries with high uptime requirements.
- Job creation: The installation, operation, and maintenance of DG systems create local job opportunities, boosting the economy at the community level.
- Enhanced asset value: Properties with DG systems often have higher market value due to their reduced energy costs and improved resilience.
Beyond economic benefits, DG has positive environmental impacts:
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions: DG technologies like solar and wind power generate electricity without emitting harmful pollutants, contributing to a cleaner energy system and mitigating climate change.
- Improved air quality: By reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based power plants, DG can lead to cleaner air, particularly in urban areas. This has significant health benefits for residents.
- Increased energy efficiency: DG systems can optimize energy use by generating electricity on-site, reducing transmission losses associated with traditional grid systems. This leads to more efficient energy utilization.
- Sustainable development: DG promotes the development of renewable energy sources, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.
However, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks:
- Intermittency of renewable sources: Solar and wind power generation can fluctuate depending on weather conditions. This requires effective energy storage solutions and grid management strategies to ensure reliable electricity supply.
- Grid stability challenges: Large-scale adoption of DG can impact grid stability, requiring robust integration strategies and advanced control systems to ensure smooth operation.
- Cost of installation: The initial investment in DG systems can be significant, potentially discouraging some individuals or businesses from adopting these technologies.
Despite these challenges, the economic and environmental benefits of DG are compelling. As technologies continue to improve and costs decline, DG is poised to play an increasingly important role in the transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
Regulatory Frameworks for Distributed Generation
The integration of distributed generation (DG) into the electric grid requires a robust regulatory framework to ensure safety, reliability, and efficiency. This framework typically encompasses various aspects, including:
1. Interconnection Standards: Establishing clear and standardized procedures for connecting DG systems to the grid is crucial. These standards specify technical requirements, such as voltage levels, frequency, and protection systems, to ensure seamless integration and minimize potential disruptions.
2. Net Metering and Feed-in Tariffs: These policies encourage the adoption of DG by allowing consumers to sell excess electricity generated to the grid. Net metering allows consumers to receive credits for the energy they export, while feed-in tariffs offer predetermined rates for electricity generated from renewable sources.
3. Grid Management and Control: Implementing effective grid management strategies is vital to accommodate the distributed nature of DG. This includes developing advanced control systems that can monitor and manage the flow of electricity from DG sources and ensure grid stability.
4. Safety and Reliability Regulations: Regulations are necessary to ensure the safety of both DG systems and the broader grid. This includes fire safety protocols, electrical code compliance, and measures to prevent the backflow of electricity.
5. Environmental Regulations: Regulatory frameworks should incorporate environmental considerations, promoting the use of clean and sustainable DG technologies. This may involve emissions standards, renewable energy mandates, and incentives for energy efficiency.
6. Incentives and Subsidies: Governments and utilities often offer financial incentives, such as tax credits, rebates, and subsidies, to encourage the adoption of DG. These incentives can offset the initial costs of installing DG systems and make them more appealing to consumers.
7. Consumer Protection: Regulatory frameworks should include measures to protect consumers, such as ensuring fair pricing, transparency in billing, and access to information about DG options.
8. Interagency Coordination: Effective regulation requires coordination among different agencies and stakeholders, including utilities, regulatory bodies, and local governments. This ensures a comprehensive and consistent approach to DG integration.
9. Flexibility and Adaptability: Regulatory frameworks need to be flexible and adaptable to accommodate the evolving nature of DG technologies and the changing landscape of the electric grid.
The specific regulatory frameworks for DG vary depending on the country, state, or region. However, the overall goal is to create a conducive environment for the development and deployment of DG, while ensuring the safety, reliability, and sustainability of the electricity grid. As DG continues to grow, regulatory frameworks will play a vital role in shaping its integration and maximizing its benefits.
Future Trends in Distributed Generation
The future of distributed generation (DG) is bright, with several exciting trends poised to reshape the energy landscape.
1. Increased Adoption of Renewable Energy Sources: As concerns about climate change intensify and renewable energy technologies become more cost-competitive, we can expect to see a surge in DG systems powered by solar, wind, and other sustainable sources. This trend will be driven by various factors, including government incentives, falling technology costs, and growing consumer demand for clean energy.
2. Integration of Energy Storage: To address the intermittency of renewable energy sources, energy storage will play a crucial role in DG systems. Battery storage, pumped hydro, and other storage technologies will enable smoother power delivery and enhance grid reliability. This will allow for greater utilization of renewable energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
3. Smart Grid Technologies: The integration of DG into the grid will be facilitated by smart grid technologies. Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), communication networks, and control systems will enable real-time monitoring, control, and optimization of DG resources. This will enhance grid efficiency, improve reliability, and support the seamless integration of distributed generation.
4. Microgrids: Microgrids, small, localized energy systems that can operate independently from the main grid, will become increasingly prevalent. These self-sufficient systems can provide power to communities or individual buildings, enhancing resilience and reducing reliance on centralized power generation. Microgrids will be especially crucial for areas with limited grid infrastructure or those seeking energy independence.
5. Increased Decentralization and Peer-to-Peer Energy Trading: The rise of blockchain technology and distributed ledger systems is paving the way for decentralized energy markets. This will enable peer-to-peer energy trading, where individuals or businesses can buy and sell electricity directly from each other, bypassing traditional utilities. This trend could significantly empower consumers and create new opportunities for energy entrepreneurship.
6. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI and ML will play an increasingly important role in optimizing DG systems. These technologies can analyze data from various sources to predict energy demand, manage energy flows, and optimize system performance. This will help maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of DG installations.
7. The Role of Big Data and Analytics: As DG systems generate vast amounts of data, data analytics will become essential for understanding performance, identifying trends, and making informed decisions. Data-driven insights will guide the design, operation, and maintenance of DG systems, leading to better outcomes.
8. Growing Importance of Demand Response: With increased DG adoption, the need for demand response strategies will become more critical. Demand response programs incentivize consumers to adjust their energy consumption based on grid conditions, reducing peak demand and improving grid stability.
In conclusion, the future of distributed generation is characterized by innovation, integration, and decentralization. These trends will lead to a more resilient, sustainable, and efficient energy system, empowering consumers and businesses while addressing the challenges of climate change and grid modernization.
Conclusion: The Growing Importance of Distributed Generation
The emergence of distributed generation (DG) marks a significant shift in the energy landscape. As we move towards a more decentralized and sustainable future, DG is poised to play a crucial role in reshaping our energy systems. The benefits of DG, including enhanced energy security, reduced reliance on centralized power generation, and improved environmental sustainability, are becoming increasingly apparent.
The integration of DG into existing power grids presents both opportunities and challenges. While technological advancements have paved the way for seamless integration, regulatory frameworks and grid infrastructure need to adapt to accommodate the increasing penetration of DG. This will require collaboration between stakeholders, including utilities, regulators, and technology providers.
Looking ahead, the future of DG is bright. With technological innovation continuing at a rapid pace, we can expect to see even more sophisticated and efficient DG solutions emerge. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, will further enhance the sustainability and resilience of DG systems. Moreover, the development of smart grids will enable more effective management and control of DG resources, optimizing their contribution to the overall energy grid.
In conclusion, distributed generation is no longer a niche concept; it is becoming a fundamental element of modern energy systems. By embracing DG, we can create a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable energy future. The increasing adoption of DG technologies and the ongoing development of supportive regulatory frameworks are essential for realizing the full potential of this transformative approach to energy production and consumption.
In conclusion, “Integration of Distributed Generation in Power System” by M.A. Abido provides a comprehensive exploration of the technical and economic aspects of integrating distributed generation (DG) into modern power systems. The book delves into various DG technologies, their impact on grid stability and reliability, and the challenges and opportunities associated with their widespread adoption. By examining real-world case studies and presenting practical solutions, Abido offers valuable insights for engineers, researchers, and policymakers involved in shaping the future of energy generation and distribution.
The book’s in-depth analysis of DG integration techniques, such as power electronic converters, control strategies, and grid protection systems, is particularly noteworthy. It highlights the importance of ensuring seamless integration and maintaining grid stability while accommodating the intermittent nature of some DG sources. The economic considerations discussed in the book, including cost-benefit analysis, market penetration strategies, and policy implications, provide a holistic understanding of the financial viability and societal impact of DG.
Furthermore, the book emphasizes the potential of DG to enhance energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and empower communities through localized power generation. By highlighting the advantages of distributed energy resources, Abido encourages the adoption of innovative solutions to address the growing demand for clean and reliable energy. This book serves as an invaluable resource for professionals and academics seeking to navigate the complexities of DG integration and unlock its full potential in creating a sustainable and resilient energy future.
“Integration of Distributed Generation in Power System” is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the future of energy generation and distribution. It provides a clear and concise overview of the technical and economic considerations involved in integrating DG into modern power systems. The book’s comprehensive analysis, practical solutions, and real-world case studies make it an essential read for engineers, researchers, policymakers, and anyone seeking to understand the evolving landscape of energy generation and its impact on our world.
Amira 
Mohammed 
Reem