Distribution systems analysis employs a set of techniques that allow engineers to simulate, analyse, and optimise power distribution systems. Combined with automation, these techniques underpin the emerging concept of the 'smart grid', a digitally-enabled electrical supply grid that can monitor and respond to the behaviour of all its components in real time. Distribution System Analysis and Automation provides a comprehensive guide to these techniques, with coverage including smart grid for distribution systems; introduction to distribution automation; network and radial load flow analysis; determination of the optimal topology for power electric systems; voltage VAR control and capacitor application; power quality and harmonics in distribution systems; harmonic filter design; distributionsystem restoration; short circuit analysis; arc flash concepts; numerical relaying and feeder protection; communication and control centres; and distributed energy resources. The book combines theoretical concepts with real-world applications, and includes MATLAB exercises.

Juan M. Gers is President of GERS, a consulting engineering company specialized in power systems. He was lecturer at the University of Valle for more than 20 years He is now associated to Gonzaga Universtiy. He is co-author of Protection of Electricity Distribution Networks (IET, 2011), now in its third edition, and is the author/co-author of over 40 technical papers. Dr Gers is a Chartered Engineer of the IET and participates in several groups of the Power System Relaying Committee of the IEEE.