A. Pahwa and J.K. Shultis, "Economic Analysis of Distribution Automation Functions," Proc. III Intl. Conf. on Power Systems Operation and Planning, III ICPSOP, pp 3-7, Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire, Jan. 14-17, 1997.

Abstract

Recent progress in computer and communication technology has made distribution automation realizable. However, many utilities have found it difficult to justify automation based purely on cost-benefit numbers. Unbundling of electric services in the future is likely to make distribution automation more attractive because distribution companies will be operating as independent entities. Automation allows utilities to implement flexible control of distribution systems, which can be used to enhance efficiency, reliability, and quality of electric service. Flexible control also results in more effective utilization and life-extension of the existing distribution system infrastructures.

Implementation of distribution automation requires careful thinking and planning. The most difficult task for a utility company contemplating distribution automation is to identify the functions to be automated. The needs of every utility are dependent on geographical location, operating philosophy, and financial situation. Therefore, a careful screening of all the automation functions is imperative before implementing any of them.

In this paper various distribution automation functions are discussed. Salient features of a computer program PC-ADAM (Analysis of Distribution Automation Methods), which has been developed by the authors for determining economic feasibility of distribution automation functions, are presented Finally, benefit/cost results of an example case are presented.

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