Distribution automation can improve the speed, cost, and accuracy of several key distribution system processes, including fault detection, feeder switching, and outage management; voltage monitoring and control; reactive power management; preventative equipment maintenance. Distribution automation can improve the speed, cost, and accuracy of several key distribution system processes, including fault detection, feeder switching, and outage management; voltage monitoring and control; reactive power management; preventative equipment maintenance. Electrification and distributed energy resources (DER) will continue to increase, and as they do, member expectations for resilience will also increase. WHAT IS THE IMPACT ON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES? Increased expectations for resilience will impact cooperatives' approaches to managing a grid with. Distribution automation (DA) is a family of technologies, including sensors, processors, information and communication networks, and switches, through which a utility can collect, automate, analyze, and optimize data to improve the operational efficiency of its distribution power system. Electric utility companies are under increasing pressure to improve reliability, minimize customer outages and optimize. This White Paper, “Smart Grid for Distribution Systems” addresses the benefits and challenges of implementing the many different Distribution Automation functions. Distribution systems have traditionally not involved much automation.