Automating the distribution network

Journal Article · Sat Sep 01 04:00:00 EDT 1984 · EPRI J.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6472144

Moore, T; Blair, W; Kendrew, K; Shula, W

The arrival of microelectronics and communications technology for power distribution systems promises a new era in the way utilities deliver electricity to customers. For example, utilities will be able to electronically sense storm-related faults on distribution lines and reroute power automatically to minimize the number of customers affected and reduce the time to restore service to others. Meter reading will be performed automatically and more accurately by computer. When a utility has to limit peak demand, it will be able to send electronic commands to its customers air conditioners and other energy-intensive equipment, causing them to cycle off and on and therby lower the total demand on the system. Automating many of the functions now performed by electromechanical switches and relays will improve reliability, reduce costs, and offer greater opportunities for conservation and load management. The immediate goal for a utility considering distribution automation should be to develop a master plan for determining the functions to be automated and the economic costs and benefits.

• OSTI ID: 6472144
• Journal Information: EPRI J.; (United States), Journal Name: EPRI J.; (United States) Vol. 9:7; ISSN EPRJD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

200300* -- Electric Power Engineering-- Power Transmission & Distribution-- (-1989)
24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION
29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
296002 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Electric Power Transmission & Distribution-- (-1989)
AUTOMATION
COMPUTERIZED CONTROL SYSTEMS
CONTROL SYSTEMS
COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
DEMONSTRATION PROGRAMS
EPRI
PERFORMANCE
POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
RELIABILITY
RESEARCH PROGRAMS
TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
USES