Currently, power grids globally are not short of problems that need quick, reliable, and cost-effective solutions. In terms of existing assets these challenges & opportunities can be placed into three categories.
1. Capacity Optimization: This opportunity revolves around untapped grid capacity, enabling more efficient and cost-effective power transmission. Capacity Optimization is the key to unblocking the renewable energy interconnection queue.
2. Asset Health: Grid assets form the backbone of a reliable energy supply. By working smarter on existing assets, utilities can free up resources to focus on the grid expansion challenge. This opportunity talks of technologies that allow proactive maintenance that reduce disruptions and cut maintenance costs.
3. Grid Reliability: Reliability is paramount in the energy sector. This opportunity encompasses technologies and strategies that bolster grid stability, minimize downtime, and enhance overall grid performance. With growing complexity, risks are increasing which is a necessity when trying to ‘go fast’. Employing solutions to expose and quantify these risks is fundamental to utilities addressing them and improving customer satisfaction through improved grid reliability.
In this article we will focus on the first opportunity: Capacity Optimization. Two pivotal technologies, Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) and Ambient Adjusted Rating (AAR), are spearheading the transformation by unlocking the latent capacity of power lines.
The Power Grid Evolution: DLR and AAR Technologies
DLR and AAR technologies are at the forefront of increasing grid capacity through real-time and forecast weather data and conductor condition monitoring.
• Dynamic Line Rating (DLR): DLR employs sensors installed on critical sections of power lines to continuously collect data on parameters like current, sag, conductor temperature, and wind speed. This real-time information, combined with weather data, empowers algorithms to precisely determine a line's capacity. DLR enhances grid efficiency by dynamically adjusting line ratings based on environmental conditions.
• Ambient Adjusted Rating (AAR): AAR takes a sensor-less approach, relying solely on weather data from third-party providers to enhance line capacity. While simpler and cost-effective compared to DLR, AAR typically yields lower capacity gains due to its exclusion of wind's cooling effect.
FERC Mandate and the Pursuit of Additional Capacity
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) enforces rigorous standards for power network operation in the United States, pushing for modernization and excellence. By July 2025, FERC requires full compliance to Order 881 by mandating AAR for transmission line owners. Here's where DLR and AAR come into play, offering improved capacity gains during cooler or windier weather conditions.
DLR and AAR: Enhancing Grid Efficiency and Reliability
DLR and AAR technologies dramatically improve the capacity on existing overhead transmission and distribution lines. With DLR producing up to 40% additional capacity 50% of the time while AAR yields a humbler and more conservative 5% to 10%. The benefits of this are: largely reducing locational electricity prices, deferring line upgrades, or enabling improved outage windows. These are high-value benefits at a as little as 2% the price of alternative solutions such as reconductoring or building new lines.
PPL Electric Utilities: A Real-World Success Story
A stellar example of DLR's impact is PPL Electric Utilities, which saved a remarkable $23 million through its adoption¹,². PPL faced the challenge of grid congestion and high nodal prices, which typically necessitated expensive network upgrades. In a strategic move, they opted for Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) solutions, proving to be 90% more cost-effective than traditional upgrades. This choice allowed them to increase line capacity by 20% for 90% of the time, ensuring a reliable power supply.
In Conclusion: Paving the Way for a More Efficient Grid
Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) and Ambient Adjusted Rating (AAR) solutions are pivotal in meeting the surging demand for electricity. By enhancing capacity, preserving asset health, and bolstering grid reliability, these innovations drive efficiency, cost reduction, and the evolution of a smarter, adaptable power network. FERC's mandates underscore the inexorable integration of smart grids, and PPL's success story demonstrates the significant advantages companies can gain from embracing these transformative tools.
Learn More
For more information about Ampacimon and its pioneering Grid Enhancing Technologies, please visit www.ampacimon.com.
(Note: This article is the first in a series of three articles. The upcoming articles will delve into the remaining opportunities: quantifying asset health and improving grid reliability.)
References:
¹. Inside Lines - Dynamic Line Rating Activated by PPL Electric Utilities
². TD World - PPL Electric Utilities Launches Line Rating Technology to Improve Reliability
