Decentralised energy has many benefits. I noticed it mentioned tonight (7.30 Report) when a Prof ? was asked what NZ can possibly do re earthquakes? "They need to go down the same path as Japan - decentralised energy."
DE for security reasons highlighted in this article "Improved Security via Decentralised Energy'. Old but informative. Lists many reasons.
Recently from the Institute for Sustainable Futures, 'Close to Home: Potential Benefits of Decentralised Energy For NSW Electicity Consumers' Nov 2010. 46 pgs for the recreationally challenged but a thorough analysis.