Distribution line in the field, utilities.

Distribution Studies

Distribution studies

Smarter planning for a changing distribution grid

 

Distribution systems are evolving rapidly, driven by DER adoption, electrification, load growth, and increasing regulatory demands. Danovo Energy Solutions responds with integrated distribution studies that unify feeder and substation planning, DER integration, reliability analysis, and long-range forecasting into a single, model-driven framework, enabling utilities to move from reactive studies to coordinated, system-wide planning that improves performance, accelerates interconnection, and supports defensible, regulator-ready investment decisions.

 

Built on an Integrated System Planning Framework

 

Our distribution studies are delivered within a broader integrated system planning approach that connects:

  • Capacity planning for substations and feeders across large planning areas
  • Reliability performance analysis (SAIDI, SAIFI, CMI, CI)
  • Feeder and substation N-1 contingency analysis (including 100% load transfer scenarios)
  • DER integration, hosting capacity, and electrification impacts
  • Long-range forecasting and regulatory planning

 

This integrated methodology enables full system visibility, allowing utilities to evaluate tradeoffs, prioritize investments, and align near-term actions with long-term system needs.

Integrated system planning for a distribution grid.

Advanced Distribution Study Capabilities

Distribution Planning & System Analysis

We perform detailed distribution system planning across feeders and substations using validated models and structured workflows. This process provides a before-and-after view of system performance, supporting capacity planning and reliability improvements.

  • Feeder performance assessment (voltage, thermal capacity, number of customers)
  • Reliability evaluation (CMI, CI, SAIDI, SAIFI)
  • Feeder and substation N-1 contingency analysis
  • Model validation, conditioning, and feeder normalization
  • Power flow simulations using Synergi models
  • We identify and implement mitigation strategies, including:
  • Reconductoring feeder trunks
  • Substation upgrades or new transformer installations
  • Switching schedules for feeder and substation contingency operations
  • System improvements aligned with planning guidelines

Distributed Generation (DG) System Impact Studies

We streamline DG interconnection studies to manage high application volumes while maintaining analytical rigor. Designed to handle thousands of applications and increasing DER penetration, this approach improves turnaround time and consistency.

  • Hosting capacity analysis with continuous updates and quality control
  • Inclusion of rooftop PV and minimum daylight load conditions in modeling
  • Automated study processes reducing timelines from weeks to days
  • Integration of DG into power flow circuit models
  • User-friendly HMI tools for planners

DER Portfolio Optimization & Benefit-Cost Analysis

We enable utilities to evaluate DER as a viable alternative to traditional infrastructure through detailed techno-economic analysis.

  • 8,760-hour simulations capturing full operational behavior
  • Integration of CYME, SCADA, AMI, and DG databases
  • Consistent benefit-cost framework comparing NWAs and grid solutions
  • Evaluation under multiple contingency scenarios
  • Supports decisions such as:
  • Deferring or replacing capital investments
  • Determining optimal DER portfolio sizing
  • Evaluating reliability and capacity impacts

Long-Range Resource Planning

We develop comprehensive, regulator-ready long-term plans aligned with system needs and policy requirements. Applied across large service territories with hundreds of substations, delivering transparent and defensible planning outcomes.

  • 10-year forecasts for load, DER, and electrification
  • System performance evaluation under forecast scenarios, including N-1
  • Integration of safety, reliability, and infrastructure planning
  • Identification and evaluation of Non-Wires Alternatives
  • Development of analysis for regulatory filings

DER & Electrification Enablement

We support the transition to a DER-driven grid through integrated planning frameworks and tools. This enables proactive, system-wide planning rather than reactive interconnection processes.

  • DER and NWA planning frameworks
  • Technical and economic feasibility assessments
  • Electrification impact analysis (EVs, building electrification)
  • Multi-stakeholder planning support (utilities, municipalities, developers)
  • Regulatory support for DER integration

Hosting Capacity Analysis & Mapping

We provide scalable, data-driven hosting capacity solutions to support rapid DER integration. Developed to address high DER penetration and system constraints, enabling faster and more transparent interconnection decisions.

  • Feeder model creation, conditioning, and validation
  • Data processing to resolve inconsistencies and improve accuracy
  • Analysis supporting thousands of interconnection applications
  • Visualization of system capacity and constraints
  • Regulatory support and technical testimony
Solar farm showing DER integration
Solar energy in front of a city at night showing distributed energy resources for distribution.

Why danovo energy solutions?

 

Danovo Energy Solutions combines deep distribution engineering expertise with advanced modeling, automation, and integrated planning methodologies to deliver high-quality, scalable distribution studies. We help utilities decide what distribution investments to make, when to make them, and how to execute them under reliability, resilience, load-growth, supply-chain, and capital constraints. By connecting system analysis, DER strategy, and long-range planning into a unified framework, we help utilities make informed, defensible decisions while navigating increasing system complexity and regulatory demands.

What We Enable
  • Plan for load growth, DER, and electrification within a unified framework
  • Improve reliability and resilience while managing system constraints
  • Evaluate Non-Wires Alternatives using consistent, data-driven methods
  • Accelerate interconnection timelines with scalable study processes
  • Support regulatory filings with transparent, defensible analysis

Learn More about Distribution Studies