Abstract
The development of techniques under geographical information system (GIS) platforms, such as geocomputational modeling, which increase the capabilities of GIS, allowing the systems to adapt to optimal distributed generation (DG) planning studies, is discussed. Using adequate software under the GIS platform, users can obtain useful information on the economic or technical viability of any distributed power generation facilities. GIS offers a variety of structured data models suitable for the storage, manipulation, and analysis of the information needed in DG planning. GIS can also be used in DG planning to study negotiation processes among different energy actors to look for geographical planning solutions.

Abstract
This paper presents the structure of a negotiation aid system (NAS) to select the best locations for new DG facilities, using sophisticated spatial techniques [based on geographical information systems (GISs)] and decision aid methodologies for negotiation, based on consensus among groups that may have conflicting interests. This system helps to overcome the problems posed by initially opposing positions stemming from diverse technological, economic, environmental and/or social interests. The NAS use is illustrated with results from a negotiation process between two groups to select locations for new wind farms in the region of La Rioja, Spain.

Abstract
This paper presents a new multicriteria decision aid system (DAS) to obtain acceptable power line paths integrating the diverse socioeconomic interests of the different groups involved in the planning process, such as utilities, environmental agents, or local and regional authorities. The DAS is based on the intensive use of geographic information systems, as well as multicriteria weighting techniques reflecting all group interests. This new DAS can be used to overcome the problems raised by initially opposing positions among different groups stemming from diverse technological, economic, environmental, and/or social interests. The technique is illustrated by an intensive simulation example from a case study reproducing some of the phases of a negotiation process.

Abstract
This paper presents a new methodology for auto- mated route selection for the construction of new power lines, based on geographic information systems (GIS). It uses a dynamic programming model for route optimization. Environmental restrictions are taken into account together with all of the operating, maintenance, and equipment installation costs, including a new approach to the costs associated with the slope of the terrain crossed by the power lines. The computing and visual representation capacities of GIS are exploited for the selection of economic corridors, keeping the total costs under a threshold imposed by the user. Intensive simulation examples illustrate the power and flexibility of the proposed methodology.

Abstract
Distributed Generation (DG) facilities require, like other energy projects, a sitting review process to acquire the permits and approval needs for construction and operation. In this process different groups and individuals with different roles, interests and priorities are involved. This paper presents a Spatial Decision Support System (SDSS) that helps to identify permissible areas to install DG facilities. Wind energy facilities are used in this paper to exemplify the use of the SDSS. © 2001 IEEE.

Abstract
The evaluation of high-potential areas for integrating distributed resources is mainly dependent on the geographical characterization of resources, consumptions, energy technologies and infrastructures. The effect of distributed resources on electric distribution could be studied by a spatial evaluation of incremental costs. This paper presents a Spatial Support System (SSS), based on GIS methodologies, to evaluate the spatial impact caused by integration of distributed power resources on the power distribution network costs. © 2001 IEEE.