Distribution feeder upgrade deferral through use of energy storage systems

A method for determination of the optimal deployment of battery energy storage systems for the purpose of deferral of feeder capacity upgrades is developed, together with determination of the economic consequences of such deferral. This work resulted in a practical software planning platform for utility engineers. Through this work it was learned that there may be an optimal deferral period for a given situation which yields the maximum benefit. This study also reveals that the annual rate of load increase and the cost per unit length for the feeder upgrade have critical impacts on the benefits. Under a low rate of load increase with a high cost of feeder upgrade, the deferral economic benefits may be substantial.