Quantitative reliability analysis of distribution systems: automation

Great importance is attached to improving the performance of the electricity distribution network by reducing the number of interruptions and the time during which customers are offsupply. This article reviews some of the means which are used to bring about these improvements and considers in particular the potential benefits that may be achieved by automation. The results of an analysis using the network simulation computer programme eaNSF are used to illustrate the level of improvement which may be achieved and also to illustrate the sensitivity to the variation in the fault rate of a circuit.