Rural distribution system design comparison

A good distribution design is one that minimizes losses, voltage drop, and cost, while providing an optimum level of reliability. This paper compares the characteristics of the two practices, US and European distribution system designs, in the areas of losses, voltage drop, reliability and cost. In addition, the historical development of the different systems as applied to rural areas is discussed and the general characteristics of the systems at the primary and secondary voltage levels are presented. Overall, the analyses indicated a number of advantages that the US single-phase distribution system has for rural applications. Besides the fact that system costs and losses are reduced, there are several other characteristics that make this system preferable to European designs. The main emphasis is placed on rural applications since the analysis is being focused on developing countries throughout the world