A method for operating an energy distribution network where the energy distribution is monitored by at least one control device. In order to optimize the operating state of the energy distribution network, modification actions are implemented with the aim of improving the operating state of the energy distribution network. Prior to implementing a modification action, the control device verifies whether the extent of improvement in the operating state of the energy distribution network outweighs the extent of wastage from the energy distribution network caused by the implementation of the modification action, and only implements the modification action when this is the case.