Utilizing Geographic Information System data to plan for electrical system expansion and improve system operations

Electrical system planning is becoming increasingly complex due to the number of entities which place restrictions on the placement of facilities such as the routing of electric lines and the location of substations. The traditional methods of evaluating planning alternatives consisting of paper maps and recorded notes need to be supplemented with Geographic Information System (GIS) capability. A multilevel GIS data base will offer detailed visual displays of terrain, historic places, planning restrictions, environmentally sensitive areas and existing and future developments. This information will enhance system planning and operations. This paper explains how GIS became a valuable tool in optimizing electrical system planning and improving operations while coordinating with other entities.