A Comprehensive Review of Distribution Systems:

Primary Distribution, Radial Systems, Loop/Ring Systems,

and Secondary Distribution

A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS: PRIMARY DISTRIBUTION, RADIAL

SYSTEMS, LOOP/RING SYSTEMS, AND SECONDARY DISTRIBUTION

Oliver Andaya1, Jayrald Jhames G. Carulla2 Sheila Marie D.

Kingking3, Akira Marie Pabillore4 and Red Soriño5

Cavite State University-Main Campus1, 2, 3, 4, 5

ABSTRACT

The review provides an in-depth overview of distribution systems, focusing on primary

distribution, radial systems, loop/ring systems, and secondary distribution. Drawing from a
range of articles and case studies, the review explores key design considerations such as
system stabili0ty, reactive power compensation, and advanced control strategies. In
particular, it highlights the advantages and challenges of radial and loop/ring distribution
systems, including power flow optimization, fault management, and system protection. The
inclusion of distributed resources, such as solar photovoltaic systems, is discussed in the
context of enhancing grid resilience and efficiency. Case studies on substation design and
underground distribution systems emphasize the practical applications of these concepts,
addressing issues like cable selection, wire sizing, voltage drops, and the economic viability
of projects. Through this comprehensive review, the study aims to offer valuable insights
into optimizing modern electrical distribution systems for improved reliability, performance,
and scalability.

Keyword: Radial system, Loop/ring system, Distributed Static Synchronous Series

Compensators (D-SSSC), Load, Distribution system.

NTRODUCTION

Electrical distribution systems have an importance in With the increasing integration of distributed energy
the purpose of delivering power from substations to resources (DERs) such as solar photovoltaic and
consumers, ensuring the stable and reliable flow of wind systems, modern distribution networks must
electricity. These systems are divided into primary and adopt advanced strategies to manage power flow,
secondary distribution networks, each designed to meet optimize reactive power compensation, and ensure
specific power requirements while optimizing efficiency system stability. Additionally, growing demand for
and safety. Among the various configurations, radial electricity, especially in urban and institutional
systems and loop/ring systems stand out for their settings, underscores the need for efficient
distinct design philosophies and operational benefits. substation design and reliable underground cable
Radial systems, commonly used in smaller networks, distribution systems.
provide a straightforward path from the substation to the
consumer, while loop/ring systems offer enhanced This review synthesizes related articles, case studies,
reliability by creating multiple pathways for electricity to and research focused on these distribution systems,
highlighting critical design considerations, from wire
flow, reducing the risk of service interruptions during sizing and voltage drop calculations to advanced control
faults. mechanisms for reactive power management. Through
this discussion, the review aims to provide
comprehensive understanding of the key factors

EENG 105A Research Journal

influencing the design and operation of modern commonly addressed across the reviewed studies.
electrical distribution systems, offering insights into The number in parentheses indicates how many of
enhancing power quality, resilience, and cost- the five studies identified each factor.
effectiveness.
● System Stability (5)
METHODOLOGY
Ensuring system stability under varying loading
This paper reviews five studies related to electrical conditions is crucial. The reviewed studies
distribution systems, specifically focusing on primary emphasize the need for reactive power
distribution, radial systems, loop/ring systems, and management to improve voltage stability and
secondary distribution. These studies were selected prevent voltage collapse.
because they address important design factors,
challenges, and solutions that influence the efficiency
and reliability of these systems. By analyzing these ● Reactive Power Management (4)
papers, we were able to extract key concepts, findings,
and recommendations, providing a clearer Effective management of reactive power is
understanding of the current developments and essential for maintaining power quality and
challenges in this field. optimizing performance. The studies highlight
various compensation strategies, both static and
Documents Reviewed dynamic, to enhance grid resilience.

The five studies reviewed address various components ● Substation Design and Capacity (4)
of electrical power distribution systems, focusing on
improving efficiency, reliability, and safety. The papers Proper design of substations, including capacity
primarily utilize methods such as technical analysis, sizing and component integration, is vital for
system design evaluation, and performance accommodating increasing power demands. The
assessment. The first study discusses the advantages studies analyze various design aspects,
and challenges of radial and loop/ring systems, including transformer specifications and
emphasizing fault management and system protection. metering requirements.
The second study explores substation design,
addressing capacity and component integration to meet ● Advanced Monitoring Technologies (3)
growing power demands. The third study analyzes the
implementation of Distributed Static Synchronous Incorporating technologies like SCADA and
Series Compensators (D-SSSC) to improve voltage smart control systems enhances real-time
control and reduce losses in radial systems. The fourth monitoring and automation of distribution
study reviews the importance of reactive power networks. These technologies are crucial for
management in enhancing power quality and system fault detection and efficient load management.
stability. The fifth study focuses on underground
electrical distribution systems, highlighting design
considerations for safety and reliability in urban settings.
● Cable Selection and Layout (3)

Choosing appropriate cables and designing their

routing is essential for ensuring safety and
Design Considerations Identified reliability. The studies discuss factors such as
insulation, environmental considerations, and
The following are key design considerations minimizing interference with other utilities.

EENG 105A Research Journal

 A Comprehensive Review of Distribution Systems:
Primary Distribution, Radial Systems, Loop/Ring Systems,
and Secondary Distribution
Table 1. Summary of documents reviewed

TITLE OF THE AUTHOR/(S): SOURCE SIGNIFICANCE ISSUES

STUDY TYPE
“Supplemental/Bid Department of Budget Case Study This project is significant as it The design and
Bulletin No. 2: Public and Management- addresses the design and construction of the
Bidding No. 19-117-4 Procurement Service construction of a critical substation and
Design and Build of (DBM-PS) Bids and infrastructure component, the 5 distribution system, with
Electrical Substation and Awards Committee MVA Electrical Substation and specific focus on
Distribution System for (2019) Distribution System, which is installation methods
the Philippine Navy essential for meeting the power (underground vs. aerial
needs of the Philippine Navy at cables), transformer
Naval Station Leovigildo placement, and
Gantioqui. Ensuring reliable compliance with
power distribution and adherence standards such as the
to national electrical standards Philippine Electrical
contributes to the operational Code and NEMA.
efficiency and safety of the naval Amendments were
base.. made based on queries
to clarify the technical
requirements for
prospective bidders.
“Proposed 5MVA Baluyut R. et al (2022) Case Study The proposal of a 5 MVA
69/13.2 kV Substation substation will decrease reliance The frequent power
for the State University on local utility providers and outages and the
in Bacolor, Pampanga,” ensure a more stable power university's growing
supply. The projected long-term electrical demand, which
cost savings and return on currently depends on a
investment emphasize the local utility provider. It
feasibility of the project and its proposes a more
potential to enhance the reliable, self-sufficient
university’s operational efficiency. power supply to meet
future energy needs.

“The benefits of looping Saradarzadeh, M., et al Journal Article Improve power distribution Voltage drops, power
a radial distribution (2010) reliability, reduce voltage drops outages, and feeder
system with a power and power losses, and enhance congestion in radial
flow controller” the overall efficiency and distribution systems
resilience of the electrical
network.
“Optimal reactive power
Case Study The proposed mathematical Increased surface
compensation in Águila Téllez, A.,
model will be validated and temperature of
electrical distribution López, G., Isaac, I., &
implemented, whereas it will photovoltaic panels
systems with distributed González, J. W. (2018)
minimize the losses of power and causes a decrease in
resources”
energy. Proper selection and efficiency.
placement of compensating
devices allow reactive power flow
to the grid and prevent it from
being delivered by the grid with
undesired values in the
calculating current.

EENG 105A Research Journal

 A Comprehensive Review of Distribution Systems:
Primary Distribution, Radial Systems, Loop/Ring Systems,
and Secondary Distribution

“Underground Electrical Department Of Electrical Journal Article The study's significance lies in its Growing demand for
Distribution Line Engineering, Don plan for underground electrical electricity due to
Provision for Future Honorio Ventura State distribution, which enhances urbanization and the
Land Use Development University, Bacolor, power reliability and efficient land limitations of traditional
and Infrastructure Plan Pampanga, Philippines. use for the university. It improves overhead power lines,
for DHVSU Main (2017) campus safety and aesthetics by such as safety hazards
Campus” reducing visual clutter, while and visual clutter. It aims
ensuring uninterrupted power to develop a reliable
supply during outages. underground electrical
Additionally, it serves as a model distribution system that
for similar infrastructure projects, supports future growth
highlighting the importance of and enhances campus
reliability and efficiency in urban infrastructure.
planning.

EENG 105A Research Journal

 A Comprehensive Review of Distribution Systems:
Primary Distribution, Radial Systems, Loop/Ring Systems,
and Secondary Distribution

Annotated References Electrical Code and NEMA.

1) Department of Budget and Management- Design Considerations Identified

Procurement Service (DBM-PS). (2019, July 5).
Supplemental/Bid Bulletin No. 2: Public Bidding No. 19- ● Substation Layout and Equipment:
117-4 Design and Build of Electrical Substation and Installation of 2 Sets of 2.5 MVA 67 Delta / 13.2
Distribution System for the Philippine Navy. DBM-PS kV Y transformers with supporting steel
Bids and Awards Committee. structures and metering panels.Consideration
Issue Addressed: The key issue addressed in this for underground and aerial cable routing,
bidding project is the design and construction of a 5 ensuring proper installation methods based on
MVA Electrical Substation and Distribution System for location specifics.
the Philippine Navy. This includes specific technical ● Standards Compliance: The substation design
requirements such as the installation of transformers, and all related electrical systems must comply
protection systems, and distribution lines to meet the with applicable standards, including the
power needs at Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui,
Philippine Electrical Code, ANSI, and NEMA.
Zambales. Amendments were made to clarify
requirements for prospective bidders based on queries ● Reliability and Safety: Installation of lightning
received during the pre-bidding phase. protection systems, grounding, and perimeter
fencing for safety.Use of SCADA systems and
Significance: The 5 MVA Electrical Substation and remote control panels to enhance operational
Distribution System for the Philippine Navy is essential control and reliability.
for enhancing the energy infrastructure at Naval Station ● Environmental Considerations: Substation
Leovigildo Gantioqui. This project ensures efficient location should account for adequate space for
electricity distribution, improving reliability and safety for
future expansion, proper drainage, and minimal
military operations. It incorporates advanced systems
like SCADA and complies with national and noise or traffic disruption during operation.
international electrical standards, including the
Philippine Electrical Code. The substation is designed 2) R. J. C. Baluyut, V. A. I. Cuenco, K. A. L. De
to adapt to local environmental factors, allowing for Jesus, J. J. B. Maglaqui, A. L. Tangcuangco, and R.
minimal operational disruption and future expansions. J. M. Torres, (2022, June) “Proposed 5MVA 69/13.2
This project aims to enhance energy distribution kV Substation for the State University in Bacolor,
reliability, prevent power interruptions, and ensure Pampanga,”. Retrieved October, 2024.
safety through strict compliance with standards, while
also clarifying installation methods for long-term Issues Addressed: Frequent power outages and
efficiency and system integrity.. reliability issues due to the growing electrical demand
of the university and reliance on the local utility
Summary: This public bidding outlines the design and provider.
construction scope for a 69kV/13.2kV Electrical
Substation and Distribution System. The work includes Significance: The proposed substation will
the supply and installation of power transformers, circuit modernize the electrical system, providing a more
breakers, and distribution lines, as well as the grounding reliable and self-sufficient power supply to the
and lightning protection systems. The design also university. This upgrade will support campus
requires underground cable trays, transformer expansion and reduce dependency on local utilities,
placement, and metering systems. Various clarifications minimizing the disruption of important university
were provided on installation methods (e.g., activities.
underground vs. aerial cables) and on the technical
documents to be submitted by bidders, ensuring Summary: The study focuses on designing a 5 MVA
alignment with standards such as the Philippine substation for Don Honorio Ventura State University

EENG 105A Research Journal

 A Comprehensive Review of Distribution Systems:
Primary Distribution, Radial Systems, Loop/Ring Systems,
and Secondary Distribution
(DHVSU) to meet increasing power demands. The Summary: The study, using data from a case in
substation will improve the electrical distribution Tehran, found that using a D-SSSC system to create
system by stepping down voltage from 69 kV to 13.2 loops in a distribution network leads to better voltage
kV, providing the university with a reliable energy control, fewer power losses, and higher reliability,
source. Economic analyses predict the substation will showing its
achieve a return on investment (ROI) within 11 years,
with the full load capacity expected to be reached in potential for modernizing power grids.
17 years.
Design Considerations Identified
Design Considerations Identified
● D-SSSC Placement and Sizing: The D-SSSC
● Capacity and Components: The substation is needs to be installed in the best spot in the
designed with a 5 MVA capacity, including network to help connect power lines in a loop,
components such as metering, current and potential reducing losses and improving power flow. The
transformers, lightning arresters, circuit breakers, device should be big enough to handle the
reclosers, and feeders. expected amount of power and potential faults.
● Wire Sizing and Voltage Drop: The researchers ● D-SSSC Control Strategy: A smart control
used the power formula (P=IV) and voltage drop system is needed to manage power flow based
calculations to size the wires. For the 69 kV and on what is happening in real-time, ensuring the
13.2 kV lines, ACSR conductors were selected to network stays stable and performs well.
minimize voltage drops. A 0.2686% voltage drop ● Reliable Communication System: A
was recorded for the 69 kV line and a 0.8320% drop dependable communication system is required
for the 13.2 kV line. to constantly monitor and control the D-SSSC
● Cost Analysis and ROI: The total cost for the and the entire network.
substation project is estimated at Php ● System Protection and Coordination: Proper
33,252,150.00, which includes equipment, protection measures should be in place to make
materials, labor, and civil works. The study projects sure the system runs safely. The D-SSSC's
a return on investment in 11 years, with a significant actions should be in sync with other protective
reduction in energy costs and a 32% savings devices in the network.
compared to relying on the local utility provider ● Harmonics and Power Quality: The D-SSSC
might cause electrical noise (harmonics) that
3) Saradarzadeh, M., Farhangi, S., Schanen, J. L., can affect power quality, so measures need to
Jeannin, P. O., & Frey, D. (2010). The benefits of
be taken to keep the power clean.
looping a radial distribution system with a power flow
controller. In 2010 IEEE International Conference on
4) Águila Téllez, A., López, G., Isaac, I., &
Power and Energy (PECon 2010) (pp. 723-725). IEEE.
González, J. W. (2018). Optimal reactive power
Issues Addressed: The study addresses the compensation in electrical distribution systems with
challenges of integrating increasing distributed distributed resources. review. Heliyon, 4(8).
generation and improving the performance of existing
Issued Addressed: Power and energy losses in
radial distribution systems.
distribution networks correspond to the
Significance: The research demonstrates that using a transformation of electrical energy into heat, which
D-SSSC system can greatly improve how efficiently and is influenced by the electric conductors' current
reliably power is delivered, which can be useful for circulation.
upgrading utility systems.
Significance: The proposed mathematical model
will be validated and implemented, whereas it will
EENG 105A Research Journal
 A Comprehensive Review of Distribution Systems:
Primary Distribution, Radial Systems, Loop/Ring Systems,
and Secondary Distribution
minimize the losses of power and energy. Proper ●Grid Resilience: Improve the resilience of the
selection and placement of compensating devices distribution network to disturbances through enhanced
allow reactive power flow to the grid and prevent it reactive power management.
from being delivered by the grid with undesired
values in the calculating current.

Summary: This paper presents the research aimed to

5) Franco, C. R. T., David, A.-J. N., Lazatin, C. M. R.,
improve reactive power compensation in electrical
distribution systems incorporating distributed resources Pangan, E. P. C., & Rivera, J. S. (2024).
(DRs). This paper surveys a number of techniques and Underground electrical distribution line provision for
technologies being considered or used to optimize the future land use development and infrastructure plan
management of reactive power for improved power for DHVSU main campus. Department of Electrical
quality, performance and economics. In this research, Engineering, Don Honorio Ventura State University,
the importance of reactive power for voltage control and Bacolor, Pampanga, Philippines.
loss reduction in a system was emphasized. The article
considers various types of compensation strategies,
Issues Addressed: The demand for electricity is
static and dynamic solutions as well as the abilities of
rapidly increasing across various sectors, fueled by
smart grid technologies in terms of reactive power
technological advancements and population growth.
management. These results may help integration of
Campuses are particularly impacted, as they require
distributed resources better via achieving its peaks to
more power to support devices and systems. At the
maximum, and make the system more reliable with high
same time, institutions are prioritizing enhanced
performance through effective reactive power
safety measures to protect students and staff,
compensation.
including advanced security systems and improved
lighting. Balancing this growing energy demand with
Design Consideration Identified
the need for campus safety presents both
●System Stability: An important one is system stability challenges and opportunities for innovation in
energy management and infrastructure
under varying loading conditions. Reactive power
development.
management improves voltage stability and even
prevents voltage collapse. Significance: The design includes a substation at
●Regulatory compliance: Local and national the back of Don Honorio Ventura State University
regulatory bodies formulate voltage levels and (MAIN) campus, housing a 5MVA transformer,
standards for power quality while motivating the need generators, and an EE room for easy maintenance.
It features multiple generators to ensure
to maintain reactive power management.
uninterrupted power during outages. For
●Control Strategies: Design suitable control maintenance, manholes and duct banks provide
algorithms in order to control the dynamic real-time wire access and allow non-destructive testing. All
dynamic reactive power flow such that the system wires adhere to Philippine Electrical Code (PEC)
responds appropriately for any variation of load as well standards. This proposal aims to improve the
as generation. campus's reliability and potentially attract more
●Load Variability: The optimization of the reactive students. The researchers who conducted this study
successfully developed a comprehensive
power compensation system needs awareness of the
underground electrical distribution system for a
load demand variability over the course of a day. public university in Pampanga, improving power
●Distributed Resources: Identify how distributed reliability and minimizing faults. Centralized
generation, for example, solar photovoltaic or wind, generators ensure uninterrupted power during
impacts reactive power. The compensation strategy outages, supporting university operations. This
should also account for this resource. space-efficient design aligns with modern urban
planning principles and sets a precedent for future

EENG 105A Research Journal

 A Comprehensive Review of Distribution Systems:
Primary Distribution, Radial Systems, Loop/Ring Systems,
and Secondary Distribution
infrastructure projects focused on reliable and The review emphasizes key aspects of electrical
efficient electrical systems. distribution systems, focusing on their design, as well as
the benefits and challenges of primary distribution,
Summary: The researchers who conducted this radial systems, loop/ring systems, and secondary
study successfully developed a comprehensive distribution. As the demand for electricity grows due to
underground electrical distribution system for a urbanization and the increasing use of distributed
public university in Pampanga, improving power energy resources (DERs), there is a pressing need for
innovative solutions to enhance the reliability and
reliability and minimizing faults. Centralized generators efficiency of these systems. Key findings indicate
ensure uninterrupted power during outages, supporting that effective management of reactive power is
university operations. This space-efficient design crucial for maintaining voltage stability and
aligns with modern urban planning principles and sets preventing service interruptions. By employing
a precedent for future infrastructure projects focused advanced monitoring technologies and smart control
on reliable and efficient electrical systems. systems, utilities can optimize the flow of reactive
power and improve grid resilience. Furthermore,
Design Consideration Identified proper design of substations is essential to
accommodate rising power demands, emphasizing
● Cable Selection: Choosing the right cables is the importance of appropriate sizing and adherence
crucial for ensuring safety and reliability. Cables to safety standards. While radial systems offer
must be rated for the expected electrical load and simplicity, loop/ring systems provide greater
designed to hold out against environmental factors reliability by creating multiple pathways for electricity
like moisture and temperature change during outages. The integration of Distributed Static
Synchronous Series Compensators (D-SSSC) can
underground. Proper insulation is also essential to
also enhance power flow and reduce losses.
prevent electrical faults and maintain and regulate
the system properly. RECOMMENDATION
● Routing and Layout: The layout of underground
cables should minimize bends and maintain Future researchers delving into distribution systems
sufficient distance from other utilities like water and should focus on the following areas to enhance
gas lines to reduce interference and ease understanding and application:
● Investigate the role of smart grid technologies
maintenance.
and their potential to optimize reactive power
● Load Management: Effective load management management, particularly in relation to
involves calculating the expected electrical demand distributed energy resources like solar and wind
to ensure that the system can accommodate peak power.
loads. Designing for future expansion allows the ● Conduct comparative analyses of radial and
infrastructure to adapt to growing urban needs loop/ring distribution systems in diverse
without significant redesign or disruption, ensuring geographical and socio-economic contexts to
long-term reliability and efficiency. identify best practices and tailored solutions.
● Safety and Reliability: Effective grounding ● Explore the environmental implications of
systems and overcurrent protection devices like distribution system designs, particularly in
fuses and circuit breakers, are vital to prevent integrating renewable energy sources and
electrical hazards and equipment damage. minimizing carbon footprints.
Incorporating monitoring systems enhances ● Expand the scope of case studies to include
reliability by enabling real-time fault detection, various types of installations (urban, rural,
ensuring that issues can be addressed promptly. industrial) and their specific challenges,
providing a richer understanding of system
SYNTHESIS performance and reliability.

EENG 105A Research Journal

 A Comprehensive Review of Distribution Systems:
Primary Distribution, Radial Systems, Loop/Ring Systems,
and Secondary Distribution
[11] Monash. (2022, June 9). Growth and Decay. AMSI.
LITERATURE CITED Retrieved June 13, 2022.

[1] Kokorus, M., Eyrich, W., & Zacharias, R. (2016, [12] R. J. C. Baluyut, V. A. I. Cuenco, K. A. L. De Jesus,
May). Innovative approach to the substation design J. J. B. Maglaqui, A. L. Tangcuangco, and R. J. M.
using building information modeling(BIM) technology. In Torres, (2022, June) “Proposed 5 MVA 69/13.2 kV
2016 IEEE/PES Transmission and Distribution Substation for the State University in Bacolor,
Conference and Exposition (T&D) (pp. 1-5). IEEE. Pampanga,”. Retrieved October, 2024.
Retrieved from: October, 202.
[13] Franco, C. R. T., David, A.-J. N., Lazatin, C. M.
[2] Roquios, J. R. E. S. (2007). A proposed R., Pangan, E. P. C., & Rivera, J. S. (2024).
intervention to improve the power quality and system Underground electrical distribution line provision for
efficiency of Calinog substation feeder 2. future land use development and infrastructure plan
for DHVSU main campus. Don Honorio Ventura
Retrieved from: October, 2022. State University, Bacolor, Pampanga, Philippines.

[3] Manalo, P. C. (2010). Analysis of Angeles Power [14] Saradarzadeh, M., Farhangi, S., Schanen, J. L.,
Incorporated/Angeles Corporation Reconfiguration Jeannin, P. O., & Frey, D. (2010). The benefits of
looping a radial distribution system with a power
Subtransmission Electric System Using ETAP Software. flow controller. In 2010 IEEE International
Retrieved from: December, 2021. Conference on Power and Energy (PECon 2010)
(pp. 723-725). IEEE.
[4] Holand, A. (2018). Calculating for kVA in Single and
Three Phase Transformers. Retrieved from: [15] Águila Téllez, A., López, G., Isaac, I., &
González, J. W. (2018). Optimal reactive power
[5] Ilagan, E. K. M. (2013, April). Evaluation of the compensation in electrical distribution systems with
proposal for the existing power transformers in the distributed resources. review. Heliyon, 4(8).
National Grid Corporation of the Philippines Binan
Substation. Retrieved from: February, 2022.

[6] Daware, K. (2018, February). Radial, parallel, Ring

Main and interconnected distribution systems.
electricaleasy.com. Retrieved from: June, 2022.

[7] Victoria, B. C. (2002, January 15). University of

Santo Tomas energizes New Substation with Power
Measurement. University of Santo Tomas Energizes
New Substation with Power Measurement. Retrieved
from: June, 2022.

[8] NGCP, (2021, December 2). Rates for December

2021 billing period NGCP. Retrieved June, 2021.

[9] DIY AUDIO PROJECTS, (2013, February 24). Ohm's

Law and OHMS Law Calculator. Retrieved June, 2022.

[10] Edvard, (2017, March 3). Voltage drop calculation

methods with examples explained in details. Retrieved
June, 2022.

EENG 105A Research Journal