A Distribution-System-Cost Model And Its Application to Optimal Conductor Sizing

A dynamic model for the development of primary and secondary circuits supplying a residential area is described and exercised. Features of the model which support optimal conductor sizing are the evaluation of annual revenue requirements associated with capital requirement and energy losses as area load evolves. These revenue requirements are responsive to change in area load (positive or negative) arising with change in the number of residences and change in the load per residence; year by year. Results of optimization trials explore the relative penalties incurred for optimal conductor policies based on incorrect projections of load growth, degree of load management expected, and costs of losses.