Reliability based planning methodology for feeder automation

One of the most used measures for improving service reliability is distribution automation (DA). The DA technology has been widely used by different utilities for quite some time. Its applicability on the Eskom distribution network is an option but it is still in the research and development stage. This paper proposes a method for a network planning engineer to motivate the use of feeder automation (FA). This methodology will serve as a guideline to a network planner interested in using FA as an alternative or additional solution to improve the reliability of a feeder. The defined method is based on literature and existing research on FA. Furthermore the methodology is analyzed using the Eskom case study. A comparison is made by identifying a pattern of steps or methods followed in planning for Magaliesburg-Hekpoort feasibility project and comparing this method with the proposed methodology.