Distribution system load characteristics

INASMUCH AS the sole purpose for the existence of an electrical distribution system lies in supplying the requirements of the consumer´s utilization devices, it is fundamental that a knowledge of these load requirements is necessary for sound planning of the distribution system and its various components. The economic importance of the knowledge of load characteristics has become more and more recognized with the growth of load on utility systems. In recent years, much work has been done in this field. Many utilities have made and are continuing to make, in some form, surveys of the load on their systems. Information obtained from utility load surveys can be used for many purposes other than distribution system planning and optimum equipment design. Often, data from the same load survey is used in studies of rate structure, cost analysis, and development of “selective selling” programs.