However, they often are unable to control smaller entities such as Distributed energy resources (DERs), buildings, and homes.
It may be advantageous to extend control networks to these systems for a number of reasons: The goal of Advanced Distribution Automation is real-time adjustment to changing loads, generation, and failure conditions of the distribution system, usually without operator intervention.
The IT infrastructure includes real-time data acquisition and communication with utility databases and other automated systems.
Accurate modeling of distribution operations supports optimal decision making at the control center and in the field.
The key is identifying and unlocking the values which provide the best return on investment in ways that can be measured by utilities.