Reliable electrical distribution system with alternate power source

A method of managing an electrical power distribution system for a healthcare facility having electrical loads that include critical loads requiring highly reliable power delivery. A controller receives signals from devices in the power distribution system, and a communications network is coupled to the controller and the devices in the power distribution system. The controller receives information regarding the delivery of power to the loads, including the occurrence of trip conditions that interrupt the delivery of power to identified loads. The controller transmits an alarm when a trip condition occurs so that action can be taken to resume the delivery of power to loads to which power delivery has been interrupted; stores and periodically evaluates information regarding the occurrences of trip conditions and uses of the alternate power source by load; and transmits an alert when the evaluation identifies a performance change for any load.