GIS-Based Planning and Web/3D Web GIS Applications for the Analysis and Management of MV/LV Electrical Networks (A Case Study in Tunisia)

Abstract

Geographic Information Systems (GISs) have an essential part to play in the management and planning of electricity distribution. Since the management of electricity network data was previously conducted in Tunisia based on paper maps and plans, the purpose of this study is to present a case for the planning of an MV/LV (Medium Voltage/Low Voltage) electrical network in the region of Medjez El Bab (North-West of Tunisia), based on GIS, Web, and 3D Web GIS, to create an intelligent electricity network, which will be a decision-making tool. Analyses of vehicle transport and pedestrian accessibility between installations and a generation of Origin-Destination cost matrix to calculate the average transport distances between the service points were conducted. Moreover, an analysis of the network’s impedance allowed carrying out different scenarios to optimize performance and could obtain more efficient routes. The different analyses carried out were crucial for the maintenance of the electrical network and for future urban planning. A 3D virtual city has been developed to visualize graphical and attribute data for the study area. Web and 3D Web GIS applications that allow the publication of interactive maps on the Web as well as database information have been developed to offer users the possibility of consulting produced products by using the internet. A website related to the study was equally developed to gather the different obtained results.