Economic and pricing signals in electricity distribution systems: A bibliographic survey

Extensive research publications are available on wholesale market structure, but implementation and research on market mechanism in distribution systems meets technical, social and regulatory hurdles. Based on distribution system characteristics and dynamic status, economic signals exist for investment and operation in distribution networks. The implementation of Smart Grids technologies affects the interest of parties involved in distribution sector, making economic and pricing signals more relevant and necessary. This paper is a bibliography survey to summarize the recognized publications that have been done in the areas of distribution network fixed cost allocation, investment deferral evaluation, distributed resources planning, distribution loss allocation, reliability based payments, dynamic pricing, and demand-side integration. The relevance of topics to New Zealand situation is discussed to show the interconnection of underlying issues. It provides reference list for future research and industrial application on economic distribution network investment and operation within Smart Grids environment.