Utility Distribution System Planning

This training course covers the process of planning an electrical utility distribution system to assure adequacy, reliability, and economy. The course begins with an overview of the distribution system and its basic equipment. Next, the planning process is explored, step-by-step, emphasizing the importance of each step in achieving the desired outcome.

 An in-depth view of engineering economics is included to assure cost-effectiveness of the capital-intensive infrastructure.  Since the planning process is necessitated due to changes in load, the process of performing and interpreting load forecasts is investigated.

Finally, means of quantifying and measuring reliability will be presented so the reliability of the distribution can be accurately assessed.

Utility customers today are demanding higher reliability and lower costs, and this trend will undoubtedly continue for the next several decades. Effective planning techniques provide a means of meeting the customer demands of reliability and economy while better positioning the utility for adapting to future customer requirements. This ETC’s training course presents proven planning methods which will benefit both the utility and its customers.

This training course will feature:

• Distribution System and Equipment Overview
• The Planning Process
• Engineering Economics
• Load Forecasting
• Reliability Assessment 

Objectives

By the end of this training course, participants will be able to:

• Specify optimum distribution system topologies and equipment
• Conduct comprehensive planning studies
• Perform the calculations necessary to economically justify system improvement projects
• Implement and interpret load forecasts for distribution system studies
• Quantify reliability and assess progress toward achieving reliability goals

Training Methodology

This ETC’s training course will utilise a variety of proven adult learning techniques to ensure maximum understanding, comprehension, and retention of the information presented. This includes incorporating case studies and scenarios from numerous utilities as well as classroom exercises to engage the delegates in planning strategies and methods. Goals and objectives for a comprehensive system plan will be studied, balancing system performance with economics.  Increases in reliability will be deliberated and realistic means of achieving improved reliability goals will be explored.