The advantages of implementing automation on distribution feeder systems are described. When automation using distributed intelligence is applied on distribution feeders, restoration of unfaulted segments occurs in less than one minute. Distributed intelligence, as applied to distribution feeder circuits, makes it possible to consider application of automation to solve tactical problems that requires better-than-available power reliability. The utility planner can use this new technology to eliminate or reduce the need for costly system upgrades, thus providing optimal asset management.