Reliability revisited: is system reliability achievable in today's downsized utilities?

摘要

A recurring theme that has been set in motion by the gradual deregulation of the electric utility industry is the importance of system reliability. Interviews with utility executives around the United States have produced almost identicalresponses when the subject is discussed. Richard Sonstelie, chairman and CEO of Puget Sound Energy, observed that the key to the success of Puget's gas and electric operations would be the ability to provide reliable delivery. "More than ever in ourhistory," said Sonstelie, "reliability of service is going to be critical to our ability to succeed in this business. The corollary to that realization is that maintenance is high on our agenda."