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5-Day Training Course

Utility Distribution System Planning

Assuring Reliability and Cost Effectiveness

Course Overview

This training course covers the process of planning an electrical utility distribution system to assure adequacy, reliability, and economy. The course begins with an overview of the distribution system and its basic equipment. Next, the planning process is explored, step-by-step, emphasizing the importance of each step in achieving the desired outcome. An in-depth view of engineering economics is included to assure cost-effectiveness of the capital-intensive infrastructure.  Since the planning process is necessitated due to changes in load, the process of performing and interpreting load forecasts is investigated. Finally, means of quantifying and measuring reliability will be presented so the reliability of the distribution can be properly assessed.

Utility customers today are demanding higher reliability and lower costs, and this trend will undoubtedly continue for the next several decades. Effective planning techniques provide a means of meeting the customer demands of reliability and economy while better positioning the utility for adapting to future customer requirements. This ETC’s training course presents proven planning methods which will benefit both the utility and its customers.

Course Objectives

By the end of this training course, participants will be able to:

  • Specify optimum distribution system topologies and equipment
  • Conduct comprehensive planning studies
  • Perform the calculations necessary to economically justify system improvement projects
  • Implement and interpret load forecasts for distribution system studies
  • Quantify reliability and assess progress toward achieving reliability goals

Training Methodology

This ETC’s training course will utilise a variety of proven adult learning techniques to ensure maximum understanding, comprehension, and retention of the information presented. This includes incorporating case studies and scenarios from numerous utilities as well as classroom exercises to engage the delegates in planning strategies and methods. Goals and objectives for a comprehensive system plan will be studied, balancing system performance with economics.  Increases in reliability will be deliberated and realistic means of achieving improved reliability goals will be explored.

Who Should Attend

This training course is designed for utility or consulting engineers and technicians involved in the planning and/or design of distribution facilities.  If you are beginning a career in this area, this training course will be of great benefit to you. Prerequisite knowledge necessary to succeed in this course includes a basic familiarity with utility power distribution.

This ETC’s training course is suitable to a wide range of professionals but will greatly benefit:

  • Engineers and technicians new to the electric utility industry
  • Intermediate-level engineers and technicians responsible for utility distribution planning and design
  • Professionals involved with improving distribution system reliability
  • Utility engineers and consultants who conduct load forecasts and studies
  • Engineers tasked with assessing the performance of power distribution systems

Course Curriculum

  • System Objectives and Hierarchy
  • System Topologies and Service Areas
  • True System Costs
  • Substation Equipment
  • Feeder Equipment
  • The Need to Automate
  • Evaluation Methods and Criteria
  • Sensitivity Analysis
  • Planning Horizons
  • Planning Methods
  • Four-Step Process
  • Lead Times
  • Time Value of Money
  • Cash Flow Constraints
  • Cost of Losses
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • Asset Management
  • Reliability Centered Maintenance
  • Objectives of Small-Area Load Forecasting
  • Informal Methods
  • Simple Trending
  • Sophisticated Trending
  • Simulation Methods
  • Putting it All Together
  • Definitions of Industry-Standard Reliability Terms
  • Reliability Indices
  • Relationship between System Protection and Reliability
  • Effects of Design and Operation on Reliability
  • Intelligent System Components
  • Reliability Improvement due to Automation

Certificates Awarded

Certificate of Completion

After successfully completing this training course, participants will be awarded The Energy Training Centre Certificate of Completion — a respected validation of their dedication to continuous learning and professional excellence. This certificate signifies that participants have gained the essential knowledge and skills required to make a measurable impact in their field.

Certificate of Completion will be provided to delegates who attend and complete the course

Upcoming Sessions
Dubai, UAE
Live Virtual Session
Dubai, UAE
Live Virtual Session
Dubai, UAE
Dubai, UAE
Live Virtual Session
Dubai, UAE
Live Virtual Session
Dubai, UAE
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Frequently Asked Questions

Our training courses are conducted at partnered hotels located within the specified training areas. Please note that venue assignments may vary based on availability. For the most current information, do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected].

Yes, we do. We provide tailored training courses designed to meet the specific requirement of larger group of individuals. These customized training courses can be conducted both classroom and online formats, allowing you the flexibility to choose you preferred dates and duration.

Please contact us at [email protected] to discuss your group’s training needs, and we’ll work with you to create a personalized training course that aligns with your objectives.

Upon successful completion of the training course, you will receive The Energy Training Centre Certificate of Completion with corresponding learning hours.

Yes, special discounts are available upon request if you have more than one registrant for a course. For further information please email us at [email protected]

We offer two convenient payment options:

  • Bank Transfer – You can make payment via bank transfer. Once your registration is confirmed, you will receive an invoice with the banking details for the transfer. We would require you to supply a swift copy for us to confirm receipt of funds.
  • Payment Link – Alternatively, we provide a secure payment link that you can use to complete your payment after your registration has been confirmed.

Upon receiving your registration details, either via email at [email protected] or through our online registration form, we will send you the following by email within 24-48 hours of registration.

  • Joining Instructions
  • Invoice/receipt (where appropriate)

There are two convenient options to register for a training course:

  • Online Registration Form – Register for your desired training course by completing the online registration form available on our website. Simple click on the registration button or select your preferred dates and provide the requested information.
  • Email Registration – You can email us your intention to register at [email protected]. Our team will guide you through the registration process and provide assistance you may need.

We understand that time zones may be different between our Senior Consultants and our delegates. Our standard online course timings (11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, GMT+4 – Dubai, UAE) may be adjusted upon confirming the programme. Our team shall communicate between the confirmed registered delegates and suggest a suitable course timing for all.

Our standard course duration for our classroom programmes is 6 hours per day while our online session is 5 hours per day.

Our training courses span across diverse industries, encompassing sectors such as but not limited to:

  • Power & Utilities
  • Oil & Gas
  • Financial Institutions
  • Government and Regulatory bodies
  • Manufacturing & Production Industry

Our commitment lies in continuously refining and expanding our training course offerings to align with evolving industry landscapes. We encourage individuals to explore our website or engage with our dedicated support team for the latest information on available courses, ensuring access to the most pertinent and current educational resources.

Yes, The Energy Training Centre is certified and recognized by several prominent industry standards. Specifically, it holds certifications from ILM, Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and the Project Management Institute (PMI).

  • ILM (ID# 002398B) – This certification indicates that our training programmes meet high standards for leadership and management development, ensuring that they are designed to enhance participants’ skills in these critical areas.
  • Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Our recognition by CPD reflects our commitment to providing educational opportunities that support ongoing professional growth and skill enhancement. This accreditation ensures that our training courses are relevant and effective for professionals seeking to advance their careers.
  • Project Management Institute (PMI) – Being recognized by PMI signifies that our training programmes align with industry best practices in project management. This certification assures participants that our offerings are in line with the standards required for effective project management and are valuable for those pursuing or maintaining PMI credentials.

These certifications underscore our dedication to providing high-quality, industry-relevant training that fosters professional growth and meets established standards. Additionally, we are actively pursuing further certifications and affiliations to enhance our offerings and ensure we remain at the forefront of industry best practices.

About Energy Training Centre

Energy Training Centre is a leading provider of professional development programs for the energy and public sectors. With over 15 years of experience, we have trained more than 50,000 professionals across the Middle East and beyond.

Our expert-led courses are designed to meet the evolving needs of modern organizations, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications that deliver immediate value to your career and organization.

50K+
Professionals Trained
15+
Years of Experience
About Energy Training Centre

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