What is reliability?

Reliability and Reliability Indices in the Viewpoint of the Network Operator and in the Viewpoint of the Customer        

Math H.J. Bollen, Mats Häger

STRI AB in Ludvika, Sweden           

Summary: This paper explains the different definitions of the term „interruption” as used by the network operator and individual customers, especially industrial customers. The different viewpoints are strongly related to the different demands placed on these two stakeholders. Reliability indices are presented as a way to enable communication. A compatibility gap is identified due to the different demands on network operator and customer. Appropriate responsibility sharing is needed to remove this gap.