The ArcGIS Schematics Extension provides a series of 'generic' layout algorithms. The tool is used in many industries, not just electric. So usage varies based on your needs. Usually a layout that an electric company wants is based on existing CAD drawings where the fact is that there is no consistency at all. Someone made decisions on how to lay things out, there was no automated mechanism. The same can be done with the editing tools on a schematic diagram. The layout algorithms are there to potentially help get you a higher percentage of the way and then you can finish with manual placement. Custom layout algorithms can be developed that do exactly what you need.
Here is an example of a particular electric need where the Smart Tree layout with an orientation of Top to Bottom worked just fine.
http://www.sspinnovations.com/blog/2012/12/05/how-create-electric-single-line-schematic-diagram-arcg...
