How Dynamic Line Rating or DLR Technology is Improving Reliability
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PPL Electric Utilities recently issued a press release touting the reliability benefits of dynamic line rating (DLR) technology. PPL, which serves nearly 1.5 million customers in Pennsylvania, claims the technology is “innovative” and the “first of its kind.” Let’s take a closer look at this exciting technology.
Snapshot of Dynamic Line Rating or DLR Technology
DLR technology consists of sensors that provide real-time information about environmental and weather conditions, such as wind speed and conductor temperature, that affect the performance of transmission lines. The sensors are fully integrated with the utility’s energy management system. This information is then used, whenever necessary for reliability maximization, to increase the amount of power delivered over transmission lines.
This technology differs from the method most utilities utilize, which involves the utilization of static line ratings calculated based on a set of assumptions. However, unlike DLR technology, static line ratings do not account for changing environmental factors and therefore tend to be less accurate and do not provide real-time insights.
In addition to reliability optimization, the technology also allows PPL to make smarter asset investment and maintenance decisions, helping to reduce operating costs. Thus, DLR offers dual benefits for customers – better reliability, as well as keeping a lid on electric rates.
The groundbreaking technology has received rave reviews, earning accolades and awards from Edison Electric Institute (EEI) and Southeastern Electric Exchange (S.E.E.). Therefore, it must be a highly regarded, state-of-the-art solution.
From a pure emergency preparedness perspective, I love this concept! Anything that improves reliability will, by default, result in a reduction in outages. This, in turn, can help optimize response resources when they are needed the most.
Of course, this solution requires a lot of upfront time and capital investment, which may be one reason that PPL stands alone on it. But for utilities willing to take the plunge, there’s no doubt about it, dynamic line rating (DLR) technology seems like a winning bet.
