Achieving real benefits by distribution automation solutions

In deregulated markets, network planning and operations within a distribution company (DISCO) must be related both to the inputs from the regulator's office and the company's need to generate profit. The regulator, on behalf of the customer base, carries out benchmarks, studies previous utility performance, and lays down a set of criteria for a given period. The paper describes the results obtained from the new types of tools being used to extend the traditional planning tools with the financial aspects of implementing network changes and automation strategies. The consideration of these realistic case studies demonstrate where automation solutions bring the best cost-benefit for the electric utility.