Abstract
The United States electric utility industry is moving toward a new power grid that will accommodate bidirectional energy flow and the incorporation of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs). Currently, utility companies lack tools to identify locations on the electric grid that can sustain DERs' adoption. This research explores the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a class of tools for developing spatial models, with the aim of optimizing the placement of DERs. The intent of this research paper is to propose a Geographic Decision Support Systems (GDSS) model as a solution for the utility industry to assist in the DERs' portfolio choices and provide actionable information for utilities, system operators, and power producers. Claremont city has been chosen as the research site to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed model. This will also serve as the basis for future research.