Abstract

From its generation to utilization, some of the electrical energy gets wasted in the process. This loss of energy occurs due to various reasons, one of which is energy loss in distribution networks. Considering the high cost of power generation, it is important to identify factors causing this loss. This study was carried out with the objective of identifying energy loss factors and the importance of each factor. Lack of identification for factors stealing energy, network deterioration, amount of electrical load and the impact of such factors that can have significant influence on energy loss could diverge the path of energy management. Thus, the main objective of this study was to reduce energy loss and its additional costs by developing the concept of identifying influential factors and measuring the effect of each factor especially in different regions. The statistical population of this study comprised of power and energy experts and university professors. The statistical sample included 12 energy experts and their opinions were collected using questionnaires and paired comparisons. Weights of criteria were determined using SWARA technique. COPRAS-G technique was used for measuring the importance of criteria for Bushehr province distribution networks. The importance of criteria are: energy theft, measurement error, amount of load, network deterioration, loose fittings, improper placement of equipment, the amount of voltage, conductor resistance, equipment casualty, location and size of the capacitor, geographical conditions, Size and dimensions of the conductor, leakage, and network arrangements respectively. Distribution network of Assaluyeh region had the highest energy losses.

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