Improving the efficiency of power distribution systems through technical and non-technical losses reduction

This paper presents a review of technologies, methodologies and operational approaches aimed at improving the efficiency of power distribution systems, with emphasis in the accurate estimation and reduction of technical and non-technical power and energy losses. From a losses evaluation viewpoint this includes efficiently using data supplied by utility information systems, and utilizing computational feeder models and advanced modeling and simulation software for accurately calculating technical and non-technical losses. From a technical losses reduction perspective this includes the implementation of smart grid approaches such as Volt-VAr Optimization (VVO), distribution state estimation, automatic feeder reconfiguration, meshed distribution feeder operation, and Distributed Energy Resources (DER) among others. From a non-technical losses reduction standpoint this includes the utilization of Advanced Metering Infrastructures (AMI) and metering and fraud deterrence and detection technologies such as prepaid and tamper-proof electricity meters, macro-meters (communal metering), remote connection and disconnection systems, inspection and monitoring programs, data collection and calculation improvement, etc. A summary of international experiences, as well as conclusions and recommendations regarding the effectiveness, advantages and disadvantages of these approaches is presented and discussed.