We receive less than 25% of the energy used to generate electricity. That means more than 75% of the energy that is used to generate electricity is wasted. It creates unnecessary greenhouse gas, and unnecessary cost. The average centralized generation facility in North America is 35% efficient. 65% of the energy is lost to waste heat, most of which goes through a cooling tower. This electricity is then sent over hundreds of miles of transmission and distribution lines where at least another 10% is lost.

Historically, centralized electric generation developed out of convenience. Fuels were traditionally inexpensive and environmental issues were unknown; waste was not an issue. It was easier to create a large generation facility because permitting and construction costs were high. The larger the facility, the less overall percentage of the budget is spent on those start-up costs; maximizing the generation investment.