Patent ID: 7979222
Filing Date: 2011-07-12
Classification: H02J,Y04S

Abstract:
1. A method of forecasting the power use of at least one network load in a power distribution network after a fault by a processor, the method comprising: selecting a load profile for the network load; determining a short-term load estimation for the network load that is a recent pre-fault measurement of the current flowing to the network load; generating a first modified load profile by adjusting said load profile by a first safety margin; if said short-term load estimation is less than, or equal to said modified load profile at a corresponding time period, determining a maximum value of said first modified load profile within a first forecast period; if said short-term load estimation is greater than said first modified load profile at said corresponding time period, generating a second modified load profile by adjusting said load profile by a second safety margin and determining a maximum value of said second modified load profile within said first forecast period; and using said maximum value to determine whether an alternate power source has sufficient capacity to restore power to the network load.