Distribution Planning

Where this fits

How local utilities anticipate feeder, substation and transformer needs as demand and DER change.

Core system ideas

Distribution planning uses load forecasts, asset condition and network models to identify future constraints.

Electric vehicles, heat pumps, solar and batteries can change both peak demand and power-flow direction.

Non-wires options can sometimes defer upgrades but must deliver dependable performance.

Interfaces and tradeoffs

Planning uses scenarios because demand, resource additions, retirements, weather, project timing and technology are uncertain. Models are decision aids rather than perfect predictions.

What organizations measure

Feeder/substation peak, voltage, hosting capacity, asset condition and upgrade timing.