Modernizing Electrical Utility Networks: The Role of Geographical Information System in Enhancing Power Distribution and Management

Kanmani Kalaichelvan; Shafeer Ahamed N S; Ibrahim Yakoopali; Jagadeesh Kasi; Archana V; Vishnu Priya S V; DineshKumar C

doi:10.5935/jetia.v12i58.3269

Authors

Kanmani Kalaichelvan Department of Civil Engineering, School of Infrastructure, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Vandalur, Chennai - 600 048, Tamil Nadu, India. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5607-9916 (unauthenticated)
Shafeer Ahamed N S Department of Civil Engineering, School of Infrastructure, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Vandalur, Chennai - 600 048, Tamil Nadu, India. http://orcid.org/0000-0001-6910-9985 (unauthenticated)
Ibrahim Yakoopali Department of Civil Engineering, School of Infrastructure, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Vandalur, Chennai - 600 048, Tamil Nadu, India http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9217-155X (unauthenticated)
Jagadeesh Kasi Department of Civil Engineering, School of Infrastructure, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Vandalur, Chennai - 600 048, Tamil Nadu, India. http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9217-155X (unauthenticated)
Archana V School of Engineering and Sciences, SRM University- AP, Neerukonda, Mangalagiri Mandal, Guntur District, Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh - 522240, India. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5724-9593 (unauthenticated)
Vishnu Priya S V Department of Civil Engineering, School of Infrastructure, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Vandalur, Chennai - 600 048, Tamil Nadu, India. http://orcid.org/0009-0007-9283-0165 (unauthenticated)
DineshKumar C Department of Automobile Engineering, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Vandalur, Chennai – 600 048, Tamil Nadu, India. https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0839-422X (unauthenticated)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5935/jetia.v12i58.3269

Abstract

Electrical utility networks, structured as centralized power systems with one-way flow, are undergoing significant transformation. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have become pivotal in modernizing these networks, enabling spatial analysis, real-time monitoring and optimization of power distribution. Traditional electrical utility networks, reliant on manual operations, struggle with fault detection, load balancing, and integrating renewable energy sources. This study focuses on a comparative analysis of these traditional and modern networks, highlighting the structural evolution, technological advancements, and the critical role of GIS in creating a scalable, future-ready power infrastructure. To increase operational efficiency, modern systems make use of IoT sensors, smart grid technology, and predictive analytics. GIS supports dynamic decision-making by integrating real-time data with geographic context. The transition marks a paradigm shift toward decentralized, data-driven, and resilient energy networks.