[UC46] Feeder Capacity and Lateral Capacity Analysis

The Utility Problem

Capacity is important in a distribution grid because it determines the amount of electrical power that can be supplied to customers. It is determined by multiple attributes, for example, the size and rating of the conductors and transformers used in the feeder line, as well as by the loading conditions, including the number of customers connected to the feeder, the load density, and the expected maximum demand.

If the capacity of the distribution grid is not sufficient, it can result in the overloading of the system, leading to power quality issues and even power outages. This can impact the reliability and quality of service of the distribution grid for customers and may also result in equipment damage.

Therefore, it is important to have adequate capacity in a distribution grid to ensure that there is enough electrical power available to meet the current and future demand for electricity. This can be done by upgrading existing infrastructure, adding new feeders or laterals, or by optimizing the use of existing capacity through demand management and load balancing.

The activities involving grid upgrades, or adding new infrastructure are always accompanied by higher costs and thus are more expensive. The less expensive option is to analyze feeders and feeder’s laterals to find out where the loads exist and where they pose the biggest bottlenecks. For these reasons, it is important to have a system in place which allow for such kind of analysis.

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