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National Grid Partners

Where energy utilities feel bound by constraints when integrating increased capacity from renewable energy sources into the grid, NGP partner LineVision, offers an unbound, efficient solution to end the excuses. 

The company’s patented sensor and data analytics platform uses easily installed non-contact sensors mounted near the base of transmission towers to monitor line conditions in real time; assess how much electricity they can safely carry; and in turn increase line capacity when conditions permit, without physical upgrades to the system. This additional capacity, in many cases, can allow more renewable generation to safely connect to the transmission grid without the time or expense of upgrading transmission lines. The sensors also monitor asset health and enable an informed prioritization process for repairs and rebuilds. 

What’s the story?

When we think of moving towards a zero-carbon grid and connecting more renewables, one of the biggest obstacles is congestion due to the limited capacity on the existing grid. 

During a pilot with LineRate® —LineVision’s dynamic line rating platform—in Massachusetts, National Grid assessed whether sensor data was coming in accurately, how difficult it was to maintain, and whether it was cost-effective. The conductor monitors tested were easy to install, reliable, and effective at reporting periods of either excess or limited capacity. LineRate helped National Grid monitor and forecast line capacity dynamically, using real-time field measurements of temperature, weather, wind, line sag, and other factors. Dynamic rating of the lines resulted in a 13 percent increase in the lines’ current capacity, proving there’s a way to get real-time data on how much power can be safely transferred through key locations.  

Beyond the need to expand transmission capacity, utilities also often lack cost-effective ways to assess the condition of older lines. Conventional methods mean either replacing assets on strict time-based schedules, which can be inefficient, or using procedures that require downtime and potentially destructive testing. LineVision’s platform allows utilities to better understand the health of their transmission lines without the need for invasive testing techniques.

The LineVision Use Case

We now have a proven way to get valuable, real-time data on how much power we can safely transmit through key locations.

Can help increase transmission line capacity by up to 40 percent.

LineVision and National Grid Partners plug in new sources of energy

LineVision: Connecting the grid and renewables