An improvement project for distribution transformer load management in Taiwan

This paper introduces an application program that is based on an automated mapping/facilities management/geographic information system (AM/FM/GIS) to provide information expectation, load forecasting, and power flow calculation capability in distribution systems. First, the database and related data structure used in the Taipower distribution automation pilot system is studied and thoroughly analyzed. Then, our program, developed by the AM/FM FRAMME and Visual Basic software, is integrated into the above pilot system. Moreover, this paper overcomes the weak points of the pilot system, such as difficult use, incomplete function, nonuniform sampling for billing and dispatch of bills and inability to simultaneously transfer customer data. This program can enforce the system and can predict future load growth on distribution feeders, considering the effects of temperature variation, and power needed for air-conditioners. In addition, on the basis of load density and diversity factors of typical customers, the saturation load of a new housing zone can be estimated. As for the power flow analysis, it can provide three-phase quantities of voltage drop at each node, the branch current, and the system loss. The program developed in this study can effectively aid public electric utilities in distribution system planning and operation.