An integrated information management system for distribution networks

Managing a distribution network has become progressively more complicated as the size and complexity of the networks increase. Vast amounts of information are accumulated on a variety of media governing all aspects of network management. Existing information systems are primarily geared to providing the distribution control engineer with the information required to comply with the legal regulations governing the supply of electricity. A new generation of integrated information management system is required which will provide the control engineer with the right information in the right place at the right time. If such a system is to be exploited to its full potential, it should also provide facilities for training control engineers in both system operation and network management. The latter should include simulation of network behaviour. The authors describe a computer based information and management system for distribution networks and discuss the training requirements and possibilities available with the system