A Methodology for Economic Evaluation of Distribution Automation

A methodology is described for evaluating the economic feasibility of automation of electric utility distribution systems. Approximately 40 distribution automation functions and subfunctions for the distribution substation, feeder primary, and secondary levels are vels are included with provision fortiondistribu- line carrier, radio, and telephone communication systems. The approach followed is determination of the present value and annual revenue requirements for alternative growth plans, with versus without distribution automation, over a study period of future years. Potential benefits of the functions are evaluated for their economic impact at the generation, transmission, and distribution levels of the utility system. Economic evaluation results are presented based on assumed implementation of selected functions.