Reliability analysis of distribution network investments

With the new network regulation model in Sweden, the financial reality for the network utilities has become tougher. It is more important than ever to ensure that the right investments are made. Reliability analysis is a tool to improve th e basis for decision making when planning an investment . It can be seen as a way of quantifying the quality of supply. The result can the n, together with economical a nd other technical aspects, form a thorough base for the decision-making process. Göteborg Energi Nat AB has recently introduced reliability analysis as a tool in network planning. The method is used to compare different investment alternatives, and to ascertain whether a planned investment will result in the expected improvement in quality of supply. This paper shows, using a practical example, how the theories of reliability analysis can be applied, what kind of results to expect and how these results can be implemented.