ClimateJuly 8, 2026
decentralization
/diːˌsɛntrəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/
Definition
The movement of energy production and distribution away from a central, national grid toward smaller, locally managed renewable systems.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'de-' (away from) and 'centrum' (center), combined with the suffix '-ization' to denote a process. It entered English in the 19th century to describe the redistribution of authority or functions from a central government to local branches.
In the news
In the article, decentralization is presented as the core of the 'soft energy path,' which prioritizes local empowerment and reduced grid reliance over massive, capital-intensive infrastructure.
The “soft energy path” at 50: America’s road half-taken
Read the full article ↗Frontier Group