Benefits of utilizing a Smart Grid monitoring system to improve feeder voltage

The implementation of Smart Grids will fundamentally change the approach of assessing and mitigating system voltage deficiencies on an electric distribution system. Many distribution companies have historically indentified feeder level voltage deficiencies utilizing a reactive approach that relies upon customer complaints. The monitoring capabilities of a Smart Grid will allow utilities to proactively identify a large number of events that exceed the voltage threshold limitations set forth by ANSI Std. C84.1 before they become a concern to endusers. This proactive approach can improve overall customer satisfaction and also possibly reduce operational costs. This paper defines a proactive approach for voltage investigations and describes the benefits associated with the approach. Also detailed in this paper are the results of utilizing the proactive approach at a utility company located in the western United States, which is currently employing a Smart Grid.