A Strategic Review of Electrical Distribution Network Practices for Policy Change

The design and implementation of electrical distribution networks significantly influences customers' capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) when scaling infrastructure to meet increased power demand. For customers with a maximum demand for a single premise from 5 MVA up to 10 MVA, the power utility companies in the ASEAN region have several power supply voltage schemes. The merits of employing the 11 kV power supply voltage schemes as compared to the 33 kV power supply voltage schemes for customers requiring marginally above 5 MVA are presented in this paper. The CAPEX and OPEX associated with 33 kV power supply voltage schemes for a single premise are found to be substantially higher than those for independent 11 kV power supply voltage schemes. This creates a financial obstacle for customers intending for infrastructure expansion and requires marginal increases in power demand - such as those needing only 6 MVA. This study reviews these customers' current electrical distribution network practices and power supply voltage schemes. The paper evaluates the economic and operational implications of 33 kV and 11 kV power supply voltage schemes for a single premise. By analyzing these factors, areas for policy reform to reduce both initial capital expenditure and ongoing operational costs for customers are identified while supporting competitive infrastructure expansion. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for policy adjustments to better meet the needs of businesses seeking competitive infrastructure investment.