Electric Power Research Institute 2010 Portfolio
Distribution Systems - Program 128
Program Overview
Program Description
Utility distribution systems are challenged by an aging infrastructure, conventional designs, and increased
demands for power. Electricity distribution companies are under pressure to improve reliability and system
performance while dealing with the ongoing challenges of this aging infrastructure and increasing customer
demands for higher reliability and power quality. Budget and investment constraints require electric utilities to
manage their distribution systems more efficiently. EPRI's Distribution Systems program addresses these
challenges by providing guidance to members on managing distribution assets, reducing O&M costs, and
improving reliability and system performance. In close collaboration with its members, EPRI has developed a
strategic plan to articulate its research objectives and ensure that its research focus is aligned with those
objectives.
Research Value
With the knowledge acquired through this research program, members will have access to information that
can help them:
• Improve management of aging distribution system components
• Improve assessment tools and techniques
• Optimize equipment application guidelines to improve investment decisions
• Enhance prediction of distribution fault locations
• Improve distribution system reliability
• Manage the risk of stray voltages and other issues facing distribution planners and operators.
Approach
EPRI research in distribution systems will yield a variety of data and knowledge beneficial to members of the
program. This information will come in a number of forms and is expected to include:
• Component analysis and accelerated aging metrics
• Wood pole application alternatives
• Advanced fault location algorithms
• Neutral-to-earth voltage mitigation techniques
• Knowledge-Based Services Hotline
Accomplishments
In the past, EPRI's Distribution Systems program has delivered valuable information that has helped its
members and the industry in numerous ways:
• A quick survey of distribution circuits in many locations can yield numerous instances of improperly
applied wildlife guards. A primary factor in improper applications is lack of understanding of how the
guard is designed to function and how it will interact with other components on the structure. The
guidelines presented in the Design and Equipment Issues for Overhead Distribution Systems report are
intended to provide a fundamental overview of proper guard application to mitigate wildlife interactions to
the greatest extent possible. This information will benefit utility distribution engineers as well as line
workers.
• The Elevated Neutral-to-Earth and Contact Voltages in Distribution Systems report is intended for the
utility engineer who must address contact voltage concerns in the field as part of utility operations and
maintenance. With the results from this multi-year research, members can improve both efficiency and
Distribution Systems - Program 128 p. 1
Electric Power Research Institute 2010 Portfolio
response time when addressing customer concerns surrounding the topic of contact voltages. This work
is particularly important today, with the new emphasis placed on the subject matter by the news media.
• The goal of the research covered in the Overhead Distribution Vegetation Challenges report was to
further assess the risk associated high-impedance tree-initiated faults on electric distribution systems, as
a logical extension of work that began in 2007 with the Optimal Design of Overhead Distribution Systems
report. Investigators completed high-voltage testing at 7.6 kV and 19.9 kV on three species of living trees.
The project was successful in gathering data useful in assessing tree-conductor faults in conifers, touch
potential exposures at ground level and aloft, and the effects of precipitation-wet bark on fault
characteristics.
Current Year Activities
In the coming year, this research program expects to accomplish these objectives:
• Component analysis and accelerated aging metrics
• Advanced fault location algorithms
• Neutral-to-earth voltage mitigation techniques
• Knowledge-Based Services
Estimated 2010 Program Funding
$2.0M
Program Manager
Matthew Olearczyk, 704-595-2257, molearcz@[Link]
Summary of Projects
PS128A Inspection and Assessment of Overhead Distribution Systems (062120)
Project Set Description
This Project Set builds on a component reliability dataset by addressing components on an individual basis
each year. The dataset will build over time, with at least one new component being examined every year.
Laboratory testing is combined with survey and field data from various utilities to build the dataset and
provides a better understanding of individual component reliability, as well as operational parameters that
affect reliability. The laboratory component of this work can include electrical, mechanical, accelerated aging,
and flammability testing using a host of test and analysis equipment.
Information gained through this work will be published in annual test reports and also incorporated into a
Distribution Component Reliability and Specification guidebook. In addition, this information will be part of a
broader knowledge base that contributes to distribution inspection guides, procurement guides, field books,
and other training materials.
In addition, this Project Set focuses on providing distribution utilities with the information necessary to
accurately perform meaningful inspections that will enhance distribution system operations. This information
can run the gamut from improved methods for performing basic inspections to the development and
implementation of new inspection technologies.
Distribution Systems - Program 128 p. 2
Electric Power Research Institute 2010 Portfolio
Project Number Project Title Description
P128.001 Component Reliability This project aims to build a component reliability dataset by
addressing components on an individual basis each year. The
dataset will build over time, with at least one new component being
examined every year. Laboratory testing is combined with survey and
field data from various utilities to build the dataset and provide a
better understanding of individual component reliability as well as the
operational parameters that affect reliability.
P128.003 Inspection and This project may help to improve distribution inspection techniques
Assessment Technologies and evaluate and assess the impact of new inspection techniques.
and Guidelines The findings will be documented in a field guides and guidebooks.
P128.001 Component Reliability (065443)
Key Research Question
Quantifying distribution component reliability can be challenging for utilities, especially without a formal
analysis program. The issue becomes even more muddled as manufacturers make seemingly small design
and material changes that can have significant impacts on equipment reliability. Improved understanding of
component reliability can be gained through a framework of testing and data collection. This information can
then be used to assess unit risk and improve specification, purchasing, operation, and inspection criteria.
Approach
This project aims to build a component reliability dataset by addressing components on an individual basis
each year. The dataset will build over time, with at least one new component being examined every year.
Laboratory testing is combined with survey and field data from various utilities to build the dataset and provide
a better understanding of individual component reliability as well as operational parameters that affect
reliability. The laboratory component of this work can include electrical, mechanical, accelerated aging, and
flammability testing using a host of test and analysis equipment.
Information gained through this work will be published in annual test reports and also incorporated into a
Distribution Component Reliability and Specification Guidebook. In addition, this information will be part of a
broader knowledge base that contributes to distribution inspection guides, procurement guides, field books,
and other training materials.
Impact
Optimized distribution component selection, application, and inspection yields:
• Improved specification and purchasing decisions
• Enhanced distribution system reliability
• Reduced distribution system operating costs
• Improved safety for utility personnel and the general public.
How to Apply Results
Project results will be delivered in test reports, field and inspection guides, and other training materials.
Results will also be compiled into the Distribution Component Reliability and Specification Guidebook.
Members can directly apply this information to enhance their procurement, design, operation, and inspection
practices. This work also helps counter the industry-wide trend of knowledge drain by creating a repository of
component information that can serve as a training tool for new utility personnel.
Distribution Systems - Program 128 p. 3
Electric Power Research Institute 2010 Portfolio
2010 Products
Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date
Design of Overhead Distribution Systems – Component Reliability and
Specification Guidelines: This project will provide ongoing updates and
Technical
expansions to the Distribution Component Reliability and Specification 12/31/10
Update
Guidebook as a result of testing and evaluation projects prioritized by
members.
P128.003 Inspection and Assessment Technologies and Guidelines (067465)
Key Research Question
Outages are costly for utilities and for end-use customers. Electrical outages interrupt industrial processes,
disrupt commerce, and cause a variety of problems for residential customers. For utilities, outages are costly
since they increase worker overtime, disrupt energy sales, and draw the attention of regulators. Routine
inspection programs are one tool utilities can use to reduce failures on their circuits and minimize customer
outages. By identifying problems that need repair before they develop into failures, inspection programs can
be a cost-effective method for enhancing the quality and reliability of electric service.
Approach
This project aims to provide distribution utilities with the necessary information to accurately perform
meaningful inspections that will enhance distribution system operations. This information can run the gamut
from improved methods for performing basic inspections to the development and implementation of new
inspection technologies.
Information learned through this work will be published in annual technical reports and also incorporated into
a Distribution Circuit Inspection and Assessment Guidebook. In addition, this information will be part of a
broader knowledge base that contributes to distribution inspection field guides, procurement guides, and other
training materials.
Impact
Optimized distribution inspection technologies and procedures yield:
• Fewer service outages
• Improved power quality and reliability
• Reduced outage repair costs
How to Apply Results
Project results will be delivered in test reports, field and inspection guides, and other training materials.
Results will also be compiled into the Distribution Circuit Inspection and Assessment Guidebook. Members
can directly apply this information to enhance their procurement, design, operation, and inspection practices.
This work also helps counter the industry-wide trend of knowledge drain by creating a repository of inspection
procedures and best practices that can serve as a training tool for new utility personnel.
Distribution Systems - Program 128 p. 4
Electric Power Research Institute 2010 Portfolio
2010 Products
Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date
Technical
Inspection and Assessment Technologies and Guidelines 12/31/10
Update
PS128B Improving Reliability and Fault Performance (067428)
Project Set Description
This project set is focusing on methods and practices for preventing reliability events and to quickly recover
when such events happen.
Project Number Project Title Description
P128.004 Distribution Fault Location EPRI has developed and tested technologies to make fault location
and Characterization systems easier for utilities to install and use. Such systems allow
operators to view the estimated location of a fault, which helps
operators direct crews to do switching and locate faults faster. The
main goal in 2010 is to test performance of this system to see if it is
possible to extend its capabilities.
P128.008 Reliability Metrics This project provides guidelines and cost/benefit analysis tools for
improving reliability. The project will also track regulatory issues and
standards development around the world to understand priorities for
benchmarking and characterizing performance. New techniques for
applying statistical characterization methods and normalizing results
will be addressed.
P128.004 Distribution Fault Location and Characterization (062119)
Key Research Question
Automated fault location algorithms have not been widely used because of a lack of monitoring equipment
and complexity. Previous EPRI research in this program and utility implementation by Con Edison and others
has shown that fault location can be used successfully to reduce repair and restoration times. It may be
possible to extend this functionality to provide location estimates to blips in current that are often precursors to
faults. Another possibility is to use waveform signatures to try to estimate the type of fault, so crews know
what to look for.
Approach
EPRI has developed and tested systems to make fault location systems easier for utilities to install and use.
Such systems allow operators to view the estimated location of a fault, which helps operators direct crews to
do switching and locate faults faster.
The main goal in 2010 is to test the performance of this system to see if it is possible to extend its capabilities
to include:
• Communicating fault indicators, which offers another approach to locating faults. EPRI will research the
state of this technology and how it can be most effectively applied for fault location.
• Integrating fault indicator data with substation-based fault location, which has the potential to improve
location and accuracy.
Distribution Systems - Program 128 p. 5
Electric Power Research Institute 2010 Portfolio
• Advanced meters and triangulation. Hydro Quebec has developed a unique system for using downline
primary metering to help locate faults. EPRI will research ways to extend this to include data from
automated feeder devices like reclosers, switches, capacitors, and regulators as well as customer AMI.
Integration with substation locating approaches will also be researched.
The project will also continue to investigate other ways to improve existing substation-based fault location.
Impact
• Improve restoration time for enhanced System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI) and Customer
Average Interruption Duration Index (CAIDI)
• Eliminate or reduce repeated momentary faults
• Improve repair times with reduced susceptibility to cascading failures
• Locate precursors of equipment failure, so failing equipment can be removed before it fails
• Provide information to operators on fault types based on waveform signatures
How to Apply Results
Distribution system operators can integrate this system with their own monitoring and information systems to
dispatch crews to estimated fault locations in near real time. The fault-location system includes fault-location
algorithms, interfaces to a variety of distribution modeling databases and monitoring equipment, and a user
interface for operators.
2010 Products
Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date
Technical
Distribution Fault Location and Characterization 12/31/10
Update
P128.008 Reliability Metrics (069235)
Key Research Question
Distribution reliability continues to be an important part of utility customer service, and regulators are
increasingly using reliability as a measure of utility performance. There are a number of areas where further
research could help members improve reliability and better manage reliability programs, addressing questions
such as:
• Is my hazard-tree program working?
• Where can we best apply reclosers?
• Can we show regulators the impact of a particularly severe storm season?
• Where should we target investment money?
• How do we compare with our utility peers?
Each of these areas is ripe for more research to help members plan for and improve reliability and
infrastructure.
Approach
This project provides guidelines and cost/benefit analysis tools for improving reliability. The project will also
track regulatory issues and standards development around the world to understand priorities for
benchmarking and characterizing performance. New methods for applying statistical characterization methods
and normalizing results will be addressed, as will a number of other areas such as:
Distribution Systems - Program 128 p. 6
Electric Power Research Institute 2010 Portfolio
• Targeting reliability improvement projects: Using data and input from participating utilities to develop ways
to evaluate and target reliability improvement projects.
• Benchmarking: A number of reliability benchmarking programs exist within the industry (from IEEE, EEI,
and others). EPRI will look to fill in gaps and augment those activities based on the needs of participating
members.
• Best use of outage data: EPRI can help members make better use of outage data to evaluate reliability
programs and target areas for improvement.
• Information Exchange: Exchange of information on how each utility applies reliability-improvement
projects.
This program will use results from research on inspection approaches and equipment testing conducted
through Project Set 128A.
Impact
• Reduce customer interruptions (e.g. SAIFI, MAIFI)
• Improve restoration times (SAIDI, CAIDI)
• More efficiently meet regulatory requirements
• More efficiently apply reliability-improvement programs (inspections, automation, lightning protection, and
more)
How to Apply Results
Members can use the results of project research to support regulatory filings. Approaches to reliability
improvement can further be used to refine and target existing reliability programs.
2010 Products
Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date
Technical
Reliability Metrics 12/31/10
Update
PS128C Potential Electric Hazard Issues (067429)
Project Set Description
This collaborative research Project Set provides the latest techniques for understanding and dealing with
virtually all related concerns at readily accessible human and animal contact locations. The main goal of the
project in 2009 is twofold. First, the project will continue to provide research that enhances state-of-the-art
understanding of how to deal with induced voltages, urban stray voltages, and the range of elevated neutral-
to-earth voltage (NEV) concerns. Second, the wealth of material developed in prior years will be consolidated
into a single resource to support staff training, industry awareness, regulatory inquiries, and overall
understanding of related subject matter. As in previous years, contributors will prioritize the final scope of
work based on a selection of priorities and options.
Distribution Systems - Program 128 p. 7
Electric Power Research Institute 2010 Portfolio
Project Number Project Title Description
P128.005 NEV and Urban Contact This collaborative research project provides the latest techniques for
Voltage Issues and understanding and dealing with virtually all related concerns at readily
System Design accessible human and animal contact locations. The main goal of the
project in 2010 is twofold. First, the project will continue to provide
research that enhances state-of-the-art understanding of how to deal
with induced voltages, urban stray voltages, and the range of
elevated NEV concerns. Second, the wealth of material developed in
prior years will be consolidated into a single resource to support staff
training, industry awareness, regulatory inquiries, and overall
understanding of related subjects. As in previous years, contributors
will prioritize the final scope of work based on a selection of priorities
and options.
P128.005 NEV and Urban Contact Voltage Issues and System Design (062118)
Key Research Question
Elevated neutral-to-earth voltages (NEV) and voltages on other conductive objects cause concerns for
humans and animals at contact locations such as dairy farms, swimming pools, gas pipelines, street poles,
and other installations at or near electric power distribution points. This is a highly visible subject, with a wide
range of concerns and issues involving regulators, transmission companies, distribution companies, and their
customers.
Approach
This collaborative research project provides the latest techniques for understanding and dealing with virtually
all related concerns at readily accessible human and animal contact locations. The main goal of the project in
2010 is twofold. First, the project will continue to provide research that enhances state-of-the-art
understanding of how to deal with induced voltages, urban stray voltages, and the range of elevated NEV
concerns. Second, the wealth of material developed in prior years will be consolidated into a single resource
to support staff training, industry awareness, regulatory inquiries, and overall understanding of related
subjects. As in previous years, contributors will prioritize the final scope of work based on a selection of
priorities and options.
Impact
• Lowers the risks and costs of potential problems, providing savings on future engineering investigations
by providing evaluation methods and field-proven solution methodologies
• Reduces the possibility of humans and animals experiencing perceptible levels of elevated voltage at
potential contact locations
• Enhances members' ability to comply with existing or anticipated regulatory limits related to stray voltage
How to Apply Results
Project members can use this work to develop comprehensive methodologies and processes for handling
customer complaints and regulatory inquiries about elevated NEV and urban stray voltage; prioritize and
standardize the means by which they repair or provide mitigation solutions for identified voltage concerns and
how they support customer-initiated remediation; and develop training tools and standardized investigation
procedures for their staff that result in a well-defined, structured process from the initial complaint to final
follow-up.
Distribution Systems - Program 128 p. 8
Electric Power Research Institute 2010 Portfolio
2010 Products
Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date
NEV and other Contact Voltage Issues 12/31/10 Technical Report
PS128D Distribution Technology Transfer and Knowledge Development (065441)
Project Set Description
EPRI’s Distribution Knowledge-Based Services cost-effectively support utility distribution engineering
managers and staff with exclusive technical resources, training, and standards information. Members have
access to the best distribution engineering expertise in the industry to deal with specific challenges in a timely
manner and stay informed on key technical developments. The project includes:
• Standards Exchange: A web-based repository of utility design, operations, and maintenance standards in
a default PDF format. Members can submit standards and access standards submitted by other utilities.
All documents are accessible through a full-text search based on customized queries.
• Member Forum: A web-based forum for utilities, with topics covering any issue related to distribution
system design and operations including equipment problems, maintenance strategies, application of
equipment, reliability problems, and more. Members access the forum via website or e-mail. All messages
can be queried with a search engine.
• Updates on important new developments in the industry-standards community: Updates on activities in
IEEE standards development affecting distribution systems, including reliability standards, distribution
equipment standards, and distribution operations standards.
Project Number Project Title Description
P128.007 Distribution Technology EPRI’s Distribution Knowledge-Based Services cost-effectively
Transfer and Knowledge supports utility distribution engineering managers and staff with
Development exclusive technical resources, training, and standards information.
Members gain access to the best distribution engineering expertise in
the industry to deal with specific challenges in a timely manner and
stay informed on key technical developments.
P128.007 Distribution Technology Transfer and Knowledge Development (065442)
Key Research Question
Distribution companies face a variety of pressures and technical challenges. Utility planners, engineers, and
operators must stay familiar with the latest technologies, software tools, standards, and procedures for
optimizing distribution system performance. At the same time, many utilities are losing valuable experience as
the aging workforce retires.
Approach
EPRI’s Distribution Knowledge-Based Services cost-effectively support utility distribution engineering
managers and staff with exclusive technical resources, training, and standards information. Members gain
access to the best distribution engineering expertise in the industry to deal with specific challenges in a timely
manner and stay informed on key technical developments. The project includes the following:
• Distribution Hotline Access: Members will have access to a distribution hotline, gaining quick-response
access to EPRI's power system experts to help answer technical questions related to distribution
Distribution Systems - Program 128 p. 9
Electric Power Research Institute 2010 Portfolio
engineering, operations, and maintenance. Sanitized versions of hotline calls and responses will be
available via a website.
• Member Forum: A web-based forum, with topics covering any issue related to distribution system design
and operations such as equipment problems, maintenance strategies, application of equipment, reliability
problems, and more. Members access the forum via a website. All messages can be queried via search
engine.
• Updates on important new developments in the industry standards community: Updates on activities in
IEEE standards development affecting distribution systems, including reliability standards, distribution
equipment standards, and distribution operations standards.
Impact
• Increases the productivity and technical expertise of staff
• Represents members' interests with respect to standards development
• Provides cost-effective and timely updates on industry developments
How to Apply Results
Utility managers and staff can immediately use the knowledge provided by this program to improve
distribution system design, maintenance, and troubleshooting practices. The service is provided through a
standards exchange and member forum, which allows for easy access to knowledge, discussions, and expert
staff.
2010 Products
Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date
Technical
Distribution Technology Transfer and Knowledge Development 12/31/10
Resource
Distribution Systems - Program 128 p. 10
