Distribution automation today: separating tools from toys

Based on an historical perspective of electrical distribution monitoring and control, the application needs of distribution utilities are investigated, and the features, costs, and benefits of automating distribution application areas are evaluated. Each distribution automation program application must stand on its own economically to be truly beneficial to the electric utility. Furthermore, the fixed cost of a system's head-end controller and the initial communication system must be entirely attributed to the initial application of the system. In order to investigate actual costs, justification of a distribution automation system is determined by the experience of a pilot trial period. An application evaluation procedure for distribution automation programs is presented, and a yearly review of each application area is recommended.<>