Electric distribution systems are evolving to meet rising power demand, increased grid complexity, and expectations for improved reliability and resilience in the wake of frequent climate events. ADI Analytics helps utilities, grid operators, investors, and technology providers assess market trends, evaluate investment opportunities, and plan and implement distribution system modernization.
The distribution segment of the power value chain is responsible for delivering electricity from substations to end users. As the final link between generation and consumption, distribution systems are facing unprecedented challenges. Electrification of homes, transportation, and small businesses is driving higher and more variable loads. At the same time, distributed energy resources (DERs), electric vehicles, and smart devices are increasing grid complexity and requiring more responsive and flexible distribution networks.
Modernization is underway across the sector, with significant investment in smart grid infrastructure, automated switching, advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), and integrated distribution management systems (IDMS). Utilities are also upgrading physical infrastructure such as poles, wires, transformers, and substations to improve reliability and reduce outage times.
Policy and regulatory frameworks are also shifting worldwide. In the U.S., states and public utility commissions are increasingly supporting grid modernization plans that emphasize resilience, equity, and decarbonization. However, cost recovery challenges, aging infrastructure, and integration of new technologies remain barriers to faster progress.
As the energy transition reshapes electricity demand and delivery, distribution networks will play a critical role in enabling customer choice, distributed generation, and grid reliability. Stakeholders must evaluate evolving customer needs, new business models, and emerging technologies to position for success.
How ADI helps
ADI Analytics supports clients across the electric distribution sector with consulting and research services to guide planning, operations, and investment:
- Market intelligence & forecasting including load growth modeling, DER and EV adoption forecasts, outage and reliability trend analysis, and scenario development for distribution grid evolution.
- Project evaluation & asset strategy covering feasibility studies, infrastructure benchmarking, grid hardening assessments, and cost-benefit modeling for AMI and automation investments.
- Technology & policy analysis involving evaluation of distribution grid technologies including sensors, controls, and management systems, along with analysis of regulatory trends and cost recovery models.
- Investment support & commercial due diligence such as screening and evaluation of distribution-focused companies, products, and solutions for investors and utilities, including benchmarking and valuation modeling.
- Strategic planning & transition strategy including roadmaps for grid modernization, DER integration strategies, customer engagement models, and risk assessments related to reliability and resilience.
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