A new technology to increase capacity of Western Power’s transmission network to enhance the use of renewable energy has gone live.
The project uses Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) enabling Western Power to use real-time weather data and solar irradiance to vary the ‘speed limit’ of how much power can travel through lines, providing greater flexibility in managing the network.
Western Power’s transmission lines are currently rated using a static calculation in line with conventional industry standards, which indicate the maximum amount of electricity an asset can safely handle based on environmental conditions, the asset type, and location.
The existing static line ratings use industry standard assumptions for variables like ambient temperatures and solar irradiance.
Acting Executive Manager Asset Management Ben Bristow said DLR has been rolled out on a select number of lines with results informing future plans and further roll-out.
“If electrical current is like a car, and our network infrastructure is the road, then the rating acts like a smart freeway, indicating how many cars can safely and efficiently travel on the road,” Mr Bristow said.
“Using DLR, any variance in environmental, type of asset and location conditions will automatically re-rate a line to maximise its capacity and minimise any risk.
“The benefits of introducing DLR on a wide scale could be significant for the network and our customers.
“DLR will allow us to increase the capacity of the line, meaning renewable generators can feed in more power to the network.
“We can also take advantage of the lower solar irradiance as the sun sets and overnight, which will help with evening peak demand.
“The project will help us gauge the viability of adopting DLR across the network enabling us to explore the optimal approach to deliver another innovative project for the Western Australian community.”