Overhead Distribution at 4.16 Kv and 12.47 Kv in Urban Areas [includes discussion]

The scope of this paper will cover a review of the general aspects and philosophy of overhead distribution that may influence a decision between continuing an existing urban operation at 2,400/4,160 volts and conversion to 7,200/12,470 volts; and a presentation of cost summaries derived from several studies and comparisons made for present operating systems. It is concluded that a higher voltage should replace 4.16 kv under some conditions but that the cost of conversion is not justified in many situations, and that both voltages should be continued in general design and planning for future optimum distribution, with larger component parts for supply to growing loads.