Web-based distribution system planning

Computer analysis tools are the basis for all rigorous analysis for distribution system planning and engineering. Distribution systems are very large and complex by nature, and detailed models can only be analyzed with the help of computers and supporting software. These tools, however, art subject to difficulties that limit their effectiveness. Maintenance and support expenses, for example, typically result in limited feature. Version management expenses, similarly, can result in an unwillingness to customize and infrequent updates. To overcome some of these drawbacks, this paper presents a framework for web-based distribution system planning. This approach allows utility planners to have access to customized modeling and analysis tools over thin clients, which can reduce overall planning costs and help to ensure the bast possible distribution system for the lowest possible cost.