Changing the Way of Planning and Operating an Electrical Power System Through Innovation

This article contains an overview of the changes undergone in the area of planning and operating electrical power systems in recent years, using the example of C.A. La Electricidad de Caracas, an AES electrical utility in Caracas, Venezuela. Power system operations are subject to growing restrictions and, therefore, have had to become more efficient to enhance the cost structure and comply with regulatory demands on quality of service. Now, technical studies and decision-making processes are not only based on "traditional" technical criteria, but also use other methods, such as asset management, work management and strategic planning. In addition, customers are increasingly taken into account in these processes. The article presents examples of methods such as reactive power sources optimization, short circuit levels studies, network investment projects, budget managing, and low frequency load shedding and area separation.