Reduction in GHG emissions through improved electric distribution systems is a worthwhile goal. As electric service is extended into every home and business in the world, the efficiency of the distribution network takes on a greater impact as a contributor to GHG emissions.

In a well-run system, total transmission and distribution system losses are on the order of 9%, and of this 2-3% are in the distribution system. In the developing world equivalent numbers are total losses of 15% and distribution losses in the 5-7% range. Given the immense number of kilometers of electrical conductors installed throughout the world it is clear that if electric resistance losses can be reduced by even a portion of one percent then there will be a dramatic impact on the total amount of generation, and subsequently GHG emissions.

Distribution system reliability and quality of service also play a role in GHG reductions. Consumers will adopt alternative energy strategies when distribution reliability is poor. When alternatives include small generators driven by internal combustion engines, then there will be a contribution to GHG. The contribution is all the more dramatic when a non-polluting generation source, such as hydropower, is replaced by an internal combustion engine.

This section presents a collection of discussions about basic technical segments of electric distribution technology. GHG effects are directly related to reduction in electrical resistance losses. However, there are also significant improvements that can be accomplished through improved reliability and quality of service.