Case Study: Westar Energy improves reliability and reduces energy losses with Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) Distribution Automation

Distribution Automation Westar Improves Reliability, Conserves Energy

Westar Energy, the largest electric energy provider in Kansas, wanted to improve distribution reliability, reduce energy losses, and shorten outage restoration times. With support from a Department of Energy smart grid grant, the utility piloted distribution automation on 20 circuits as part of the SmartStar project in Lawrence, Kansas, working with Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL).

SEL implemented its Distribution Network Automation system with automated fault location, isolation, and service restoration (FLISR) plus volt/VAR control, integrating with Westar’s existing equipment and energy management system. The project improved reliability and operating efficiency, reduced system losses, and successfully handled multiple faults and four permanent fault events, generating about 210,000 customer minutes interrupted in savings.

Westar Energy