The future of distribution systems in the deregulated environment: opportunities and challenges

Summary form only given. In the past, distribution systems have not received as much attention as generation and transmission systems. Restructuring of the electric utility industry is causing widespread changes in the power distribution sector. The growing needs of individual customers and the innovative technologies being developed to meet such requirements coupled with regulatory supervision are the driving forces that are bringing about a new revolution in distribution systems. Distribution engineers need to re-orient their thinking and approach to meet fast-changing demands being imposed on them. Distribution companies must be flexible in order to compete efficiently and effectively with their competitors. Only then can systems be optimally designed and operated. Without innovative thinking, power delivery systems, and, in particular, distribution systems will cease to exist and independent, individually owned customer systems will emerge instead. In the first part of this presentation, the changes taking place due to deregulation are delineated. The second part focuses on identifying opportunities and challenges resulting from these changes.