ABSTRACT
Simulation-based distribution load forecasting attempts to reproduce, or model, the process of load growth itself in order to forecast where, when, and how load will develop, as well as to identify some of the reasons behind its growth. In contrast to trending methods, simulation uses a completely different philosophy, requires more data, and works best in a very different context. It is best suited to high spatial resolution, longrange forecasting, and ideally matched to the needs of multi-scenario planning. Most important, when applied properly, it can be much more accurate than the best trending techniques. For these reasons, simulation has become the ne plus ultra of T&D load forecasting.
