Knowledge management and decision support for electrical power utilities

This paper describes a case study for a knowledge management project carried out in conjunction with two major UK electrical utilities. The focus of the work is on the design of protection schemes for electrical power transmission systems. A brief overview is provided of the traditional protection system design processes implemented within both companies and the associated shortcomings relating to the management of the data, information and knowledge throughout this process. The development of the Design Engineering Knowledge Application System (DEKAS), designed to address the knowledge management issues within both companies, is described, and the perceived benefits this system offers the existing protection design and application process of each company will be discussed.