In 1996, Yancheng Power Bureau (YPB), supported by the Nanjing Southeast University and Beijing Creative Distribution Automation Co., launched a long-term distribution automation system (DAS) project to create a fully automated system offering consumers a high-quality and reliable electricity supply. The YPB consumer base includes 1013 high-voltage consumers.

The system includes subgraph drawing, graphics management, data management and integrated inquiry subsystems. The distribution data management includes the following contents:

• Documental information and maintenance records.

• Several basic drawing tools and graphics information that can be written and maintained in layers.

• Graphic management subsystem including 10-kV distribution network and geographic connection diagrams.

• Geographic and schematic diagrams that can be displayed independently and viewed in various formats.

• Real-time operational displays of the distribution network.

The DAS collects and processes real-time data from field remote terminal units (RTUs) in addition to links with other management systems, for example, dispatching automation and load control system. At present, data is collected from distribution switches, fault indicators, substation switches and some consumer transformers.

Since 1996, the 10-kV distribution system in the urban area in Yancheng have been reconstructed, interconnected and equipped with more in-line section switches to provide the level of automation required for remote surveillance and control. Power-supply reliability has improved year by year, from 99.7% in 1996 to 99.98% in 2000, and Yancheng now has one of the most advanced distribution management systems in China that now contributes to the social and economic prosperity of the city. With the planned reformation and upgrading of the distribution system, the YPB goal is to improve both supply reliability and voltage regulation to 99.99%, a level of performance that will rank the YPB as a top-ranking power enterprise in China and internationally.
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