New infrastructural needs for improving efficiency of future distribution systems

Summary form only given. The deregulation of electric utility systems all around the world has created the need to plan and operate distribution companies efficiently and effectively. Fortunately the infusion of new technologies have provided avenues to achieve desirable levels of performance. The technologies that are being actively explores include distributed energy resources, high power electronic devices, communication and information systems, microsensors and latest control and protection schemes. Distribution companies are aggressively exploring all available options to arrive at both short- and long-term solutions to achieve proper balance between economy and efficiency. This presentation will address approaches pursued by specific distribution utilities in the U.S. and in India on a comparative basis. The drivers in each utility case depend on the location, size, density, capacity, cost and other relevant parameters.