This International Standard specifies the distribution extensions of the Common Information Model (CIM) specified in IEC 61970‑301. It defines a standard set of extensions of common information model (CIM), which support message definitions in Parts 3 to 9 of IEC 61968, IEC 61968‑13 and IEC 61968‑14¹⁾. The scope of this document is the information model that extends the base CIM for the needs of distribution networks, as well as for integration with enterprise-wide information systems typically used within electrical utilities. The information model is defined in UML which is platform-independent and electronically processable language that is then used to create message payload definitions in different required formats. In this way, this standard will not be impacted by the specification, development and/or deployment of next generation infrastructures, either through the use of standards or proprietary means.

For the purposes of this document, the distribution CIM (DCIM) model refers to the IEC TC 57 CIM model as defined by IEC 61970‑301 and IEC 61968‑11 (this document).

The Common Information Model (CIM) is an abstract model of the major objects in an electric utility enterprise typically involved in utility operations. By providing a standard way of representing power system resources as object classes and attributes, along with their relationships, the CIM facilitates the integration of software applications developed independently by different vendors. The CIM facilitates integration by defining a common language (i.e., semantics and syntax) based on the CIM to enable these applications or systems to access public data and exchange information independent of how such information is represented internally.

IEC 61970‑301 defines a core CIM for Energy Management System (EMS) applications, including many classes that would be useful in a wider variety of applications. Due to its size, the CIM classes are grouped into logical Packages, and collections of these packages are maintained as separate International Standards. This document extends the core CIM with packages that focus on Distribution Management Systems (DMS) including Assets, Work, Customers, Load Control, Metering, and others. IEC 61970‑302²⁾ extends the CIM with packages that focus on Financial, Energy Scheduling, Reservation, and other market-related applications. Other CIM extensions may be published as International Standards, each maintained by a separate group of domain experts. Depending on a project’s needs, the integration of applications may require classes and packages from one or more of the CIM standards.