Methodology for the calculation of the factor of priority for smart grid implantation using fuzzy logic

The smart grid deployment requires high investments in infrastructure and human resources and can take years or even decades to be fully implemented, particularly in large countries, such as Brazil. A deployment plan that uses well-defined criteria to develop the deployment process is necessary to provide the best cost-benefit ratio for the electrical systems. This paper proposes a methodology to indicate the order of priority, based on the characteristics of each system where there is the possibility of deployment of the smart grid. The methodology is to assess and quantify relevant criteria (technical, economic and environmental) for this deployment and apply the fuzzy logic to calculate a priority factor. This factor will help in the decision-making process for choosing the order of priority for deployment of smart grid analysed systems. This method was applied in the analysis of six local dealership systems and the results are presented in this paper. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.