A combined methodology for evaluation of electricity distribution companies in Turkey

Energy efficiency initiatives are now more noteworthy due to awareness and sensitivity in the use of resources in rational, optimal and effective ways. The uncertain and dynamic structure of the electricity distribution market requires continuous improvement and efficiency activities/strategic decisions by adding new investments. Energy efficiency assessment plays an important role in improving energy efficiency. In this study, Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was employed to investigate the efficiency performance of twenty-one electricity distribution companies in Turkey. The results of DEA revealed that seven of the twenty-one electricity distribution companies were efficiently attempted in Turkey. After utilizing the DEA model, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) method based on DEA was constructed, and then the efficiency of each company was predicted. According to the proposed integrated model, with incorporating new/alternative electricity companies, investment plans can be easily evaluated from a real perspective, and their performances can be predicted accurately. The study is expected to assist direct energy decision-makers and investors and help them in their investment plans.