Exploring Geographic Information Systems to Mitigate America's Electric Grid Traffic Congestion Problem

The United States electric utility industry is transitioning from a one-way distribution grid to a new power grid that will accommodate bidirectional energy flow. Utility companies desire a solution for electric grid traffic congestion, which will work in synchrony with the industry's transition towards future integrated distribution systems. This report explores Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a class of tools for developing better models, and their aim to resolve the electric grid traffic congestion problem. The intent of this research paper is to propose a GIS-driven solution for the utility industry to forecast and balance electric power across the grid. This will serve as the basis for future research.