Prospected evolution for low voltage customers: Ecodesign of the electrical distribution system

In the last years important improvements are developing in the European Union EU electrical systems: the process of electrical market liberalization, extended to all the customers, small and residential included, and a strong encouragement towards the energy saving and the installation of small renewable power sources. The actual distribution system for low voltage customers appears inadequate to comply with these improvements. The electricity market has to recognize the constitution of union of Customers Bunches. For an actual safety progress, a comparative analysis of international electrical approaches on distribution systems will promote an understanding of their similarities and differences and the design of new integrated common solutions. The authors suggest the ecodesign of the residential and commercial low voltage distribution for the next future that allows to accomplish the goals about safety, power quality, emergency systems, load shedding and energy management. The ecodesign requires imagination and intelligence that can reveal opportunities, expose risks and support strategic decision making. © 2008 IEEE