Instructor: Douglas Houseman

The prerequisite for this course is Power System Basics or familiarity with basic formulas and power system equipment.

The focus of this course is to provide attendees with an overview of the issues associated with the planning, engineering, design, operation, and automation of electrical distribution systems. Types of distribution systems and network circuits, as well as engineering issues related to distribution systems, will be explored. New concepts in the design, challenges, and operation of the smart grid will be addressed. This course is intended for those who are not familiar with the delivery of electricity to the end user.

Topics covered in the course include an introduction to the types of distribution systems, issues associated with distribution planning such as outages and reliability, distribution engineering considerations relating to radial and secondary networks, and distribution automation. The course also provides an overview of electrical distribution operations, including the roles of utility personnel, construction and maintenance considerations, and trends in the industry. The smart grid and its impact on the distribution system will be explored.