Implementing the automation of electric distribution networks, from simple remote control to the application of software-based decision tools, requires many considerations, such as assessing costs, selecting the control infrastructure type and automation level, deciding on the ambition level, and justifying the solution through a business case. Control and Automation of Electric Power Distribution Systems addresses all of these issues to aid you in resolving automation problems and improving the management of your distribution network. Bringing together automation concepts as they apply to utility distribution systems, this volume presents the theoretical and practical details of a control and automation solution for the entire distribution system of substations and feeders. The fundamentals of this solution include depth of control, boundaries of control responsibility, stages of automation, automation intensity levels, and automated device preparedness. To meet specific performance goals, the authors discuss distribution planning, performance calculations, and protection to facilitate the selection of the primary device, associated secondary control, and fault indicators. The book also provides two case studies that illustrate the business case for distribution automation (DA) and methods for calculating benefits, including the assessment of crew time savings. As utilities strive for better economies, DA, along with other tools described in this volume, help to achieve improved management of the distribution network. Using Control and Automation of Electric Power Distribution Systems, you can embark on the automation solution best suited for your needs.

Northcote-Green and Wilson, with companies respectively in Sweden and Britain, offer a reference and tutorial guide for engineers and managers of electric companies thinking of automating their distribution system. They address the cost and feasibility of adding automation to an existing system or of building a new automated system, the type of control infrastructure and level of automation, balancing ambition or regulatory pressure against prudent expenditures, and making a rational business case for automation. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Bringing together automation concepts as they apply to utility distribution systems, Control and Automation of Electric Power Distribution Systems explores the theoretical and practical details of applying control and automation to distribution substations and feeders. The authors cover communication and protocols and supply detailed explanations of architectural options. By discussing the industry's work on justification, financing, and rate-base issues in a cohesive manner, the book develops the idea of generic networks through the concept of a network complexity factor and standard building blocks (automated switches) as a way of implementing cost effective automation and control.

The book also provides two case studies that illustrate the business case for distribution automation (DA) and methods for calculating benefits, including the assessment of crew time savings. As utilities strive for better economies, DA, along with other tools described in this volume, help to achieve improved management of the distribution network. Using this book, you can embark on the automation solution best suited for your needs.