Impactos da automação da distribuição na qualidade de serviço de uma empresa concessionária de energia

Abstract

The pursuit of enhancing the quality of energy supply, encompassing both product and service quality, has become imperative due to the growing accessibility and demand for electricity. Over the past twenty years, Brazil has witnessed significant advancements in the provision and administration of electricity services. These improvements can be attributed to various factors, one of which is the implementation of more stringent regulations outlined in the Procedimento de Distribuição de Energia (PRODIST) by the Agência Nacional de Energia Elétrica (ANEEL). PRODIST introduces service quality indicators, namely DEC (Equivalent Interruption Duration per Consumer Unit) and FEC (Equivalent Interruption Frequency per Consumer Unit), DIC (Interruption Duration per Consumer Unit), FIC (Interruption Frequency per Consumer Unit), and DMIC (Maximum Interruption Duration per Consumer Unit) to assess the performance of electricity concessionaires in delivering satisfactory services. In the present scenario, there is a decreasing tolerance for service interruptions or prolonged disruptions in supply. As a result, concessionaires have been motivated to enhance their investment in training, infrastructure, and automation of the distribution network in order to comply with these regulations. Various strategies have been implemented to enhance the quality of service provided by an energy concessionary company. These strategies include the deployment of remote-controlled equipment, the division of the network into new sections, investment in automation, and the maintenance of existing networks. This study aims to examine the effects of distribution automation on the improvement of service quality, specifically focusing on the installation of reclosers in the medium voltage network of the company in the year 2020. The methodology employed in this study involves analyzing a specific portion of the network over a period of 36 months, from June 2019 to May 2022. This analysis is based on continuity indicators, feeder characteristics, and the number of installed equipment. A comparison is made between the period before the installation of the equipment and the subsequent period to assess any changes or effects resulting from this event. The study revealed significant improvements in the specific section of the network under investigation, particularly in terms of its contribution to the overall performance indicators of the company. Additionally, there was an enhancement in distribution protection, resulting in increased security for the local population residing near the network. Furthermore, areas for improvement were identified, which have the potential to enhance the efficiency of the process.