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Benefits of electric companies sharing automated meter readings with commercial and industrial customers are discussed in detail. While automated meter readings allow corporations to design cost-cutting energy plans, it also allows electric utility companies to foster customer loyalty and to avoid purchases at spot market prices.

Issues concerning the use of internet technologies to solve compatibility problems between distribution automation and supervisory control and data acquisition in power generating systems are discussed. The cost and efficiency of internet software applied to utilities are emphasized.

A variety of technologies, designed for other industries but adopted by the electric utilities, are described. The applications of laser technology, fiber optics, and daylight corona cameras within the electric power industry are examined.

The tools, materials and techniques used by electrical line crews are examined.

Customer pressure and technological improvements are enabling utilities to provide power which is more reliable and constant, by the use of networked power-quality metering and monitoring systems provided by Power Measurements Ltd and Power Quality Systems Inc.

The shift towards business-driven decision-making is driven by six key trends, which are reported and analysed here.

The North American Electric Reliability Council predicts that the year 2000 date change problem will not bring about significant problems to electrical systems. However, the council warns that utility-specific transmission and distribution systems may encounter major problems come year 2000.

More and more electric utilities are using distributed intelligence to augment their centrally located distribution automation systems. A complete distribution automation system contains equipment that is strategically situated to provide maximum protection to a particular distribution circuit.

An increasing number of electric companies in the US have recoursed to silicone injection in conducting underground-cable life extension activities. The technique has proven to be an efficient means of enhancing system reliability, while reducing maintenance and operating costs.

Electric utilities that traditionally use voice notification and manual handling of trouble calls are considering automated machines and complete outage management systems to enhance customer service. The technique is to adopt an approach that enables integration of functions.

Utility engineers can make valuable use of hot spot temperature sensors in optimizing the use of transformers. Through the use of these sensors, utilities can determine the remaining transformer capacity, while minimizing the risks associated with device malfunctions.

The decision of whether to use essay tests or multiple choice tests depends on several qualifiers related to the different characteristics of the tests and the needs of the situation. The most important qualifier involves matching the type of test to the instructional objectives being tested, with multiple choice tests being used to measure a grasp of basic facts and essay tests being used to measure the ability to communicate facts concisely. Theoretical differences between the tests include: level of cognitive processing and memory required; testing time spent on thinking versus production; sensitivity to specific learning; level of cognitive complexity which is measured; confounded results caused by student ability in communication skills; and student preparation. Technical differences include range of course content which can be tested; test reliability; and capability of analyzing test items for improvement purposes. Two practical considerations are the time involved in producing, administering, and grading the test and the potential for cheating and guessing. It is important to consider using a variety of evaluation vehicles so that students who are stronger in one response type than another will have equal opportunities to perform well. (DC)

Issues are presented concerning the maintenance problems which are encountered with underground electricity distribution systems. The avoidance of outages caused by heat and the repair of damaged cables are discussed.

Issues are presented concerning the benefits which system knowledge and equipment information systems can bring to electric utilities. The successful analysis of the data collected is discussed.

The use of mobile data terminals by field workers in the electric utilities industry has resulted in improved communications between field and office staff. The benefits of mobile data terminals are discussed.

The implementation of high standards of engineering design and maintenance will reduce the extent and number of unplanned outages. The benefits of implementing an automated mapping system are discussed.

The use of distribution automation (DA) to improve the service offered by utilities is discussed, with focus on the range of equipment available and how to choose the right type.

New computer software is being developed to detect, diagnose and analyze problems with systems in electricity distribution substations. The advantages of automated systems in substations are examined.

The successful purchase of PacifiCorp's electric utility in Montana by the Flathead Electric Cooperative is greatly attributed to the field and office workers. These workers were responsible for ironing out details in the processes, standards and techniques.

Microturbines are expected to change the economics of electric power transmission and distribution. They provide improved power quality and increased reliability, not to mention an environmentally acceptable solution to problems normally associated with electric power generation.

Several utilities are trying to offer special contracts with large industrial customers in an effort to maintain existing supply of customers. Special contracts may include enhanced levels of on-site services and real-time pricing options, among others.

THERE ARE TWO METHODS for training a person with inborn athletic ability to become a topnotch athlete. Each method requires a coach but with very different roles. With the method [...]

As anybody who keeps the pulse of the convenience-store industry knows, service offerings in the stores continue to change and expand. Years ago, convenience stores were small grocery stores conveniently [...]

A workshop on th use of information technology to improve the efficiency of electric power delivery is presented. Several information technologies are discussed, including methods of data collection, intranet systems and pen tablet computers for mobile office workers.

The use of distribution automation systems by two US utility companies is described, with focus on meeting the individual needs of the utility and improving their management.

On-line automated monitoring systems are being developed for use in electricity substations. Types of systems, which aim to recognize and diagnose problems in supply, are described.