Planning, design, and analysis that puts you in control of your distribution system
Starting with the physical requirements needed to build and maintain the transmission lines, substations, distribution lines and equipment, GDS delivers comprehensive planning and construction guidance. Get expert analysis and field assessments, all informed by our team’s deep experience in distribution systems.
Engineering services provided include:
RUS-style construction work plans
RUS-style long-range plans
Power quality analysis
Overcurrent protection and sectionalizing
System reliability analysis-SAIDI, SAIFI, CAIDI, MAIFI
System optimization: Loss reduction, conservation voltage reduction (CVR), and power factor optimization
Distribution automation and SCADA
Substation justifications
Smart grid services
Arc-flash assessments
Motor starting analysis
Avian protection plans
Equipment specifications and procurement assistance
AMI meter vendor evaluation & meter inspection services
Grounding and stray voltage investigation
Precision field mapping and drafting support
Pull in experienced engineers, field personnel and drafters for every imaginable field mapping or drafting requirements. Our team utilizes a variety of mapping tools including AutoCAD, Bentley MicroStation and ESRI GIS mapping systems, not to mention field inventory and GPS mapping, utilizing survey grade accuracy GPS units with real time RTK correction.
Short and long range RUS style system planning studies
GDS can help electric utilities plan for growth and expansion of their distribution system for both short range RUS style construction work plans and 10 to 20 year long range plans. GDS engineers also understand overhead and underground system design constraints, which make us uniquely positioned to ensure the distribution system has adequate capacity to serve future projected loads efficiently, safely and reliably.
An array of engineering services for your distribution system
From load projections and planning criteria for RUS system planning studies to arc-flash assessments that meet OSHA and NESC requirements, GDS engineers bring unmatched expertise to all areas of distribution system management and operation. Be sure you’re compliant, safe, and positioned to meet your goals for growth. Services include:
- Planning studies that include analysis of alternate solutions
- Work order inspections that help utilities reduce risk while improving plant design and construction
- Arc flash hazard analysis and follow-along analysis following changes
- DER interconnection for renewables, BESS, and prime mover distributed resources
