Dynamic Line Ratings use sensors to determine how much electricity a transmission line can safely transmit
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) announced an advanced notice of a proposed rulemaking aimed at guiding transmission providers to implement Dynamic Line Ratings (DLR), a technology that determines the true, real-time capacity of a power line.
“Transmission operators aren’t maximizing the potential of our power lines, leading to unnecessarily high energy costs for consumers,” said Caitlin Marquis, Managing Director at Advanced Energy United. “Dynamic Line Ratings are one of the most cost-effective tools we have for getting more out of our existing power grid infrastructure.”
Advanced Energy United joined with other clean energy business associations in filing formal comments to FERC calling for more guidance on DLR use, saying in part that wider use of Dynamic Line Ratings, as well as other grid-enhancing technologies (GETs), would help ensure just and reasonable transmission rates by improving the accuracy of how much electricity can move along transmission lines.
About Dynamic Line Ratings (DLR): Technology that utilizes sensors on a transmission line to consider multiple factors beyond just the air temperature when determining how much electricity a line can safely transmit. DLR sensors measure not only temperature but also wind speed, sunlight exposure and line tension. This comprehensive set of data provides a more extensive evaluation of a power lines' condition than ambient-adjusted ratings (AAR), which are what transmission operators are currently required to use. There have been many studies on DLR; a 2021 review found DLR is over 16% more effective than AARs alone.
The draft advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANOPR) seeks comment on both the need for a DLR requirement and on the proposed framework of DLR reforms. Initial comments are due to FERC 90 days after publication in the Federal Register, with reply comments due 30 days later.
Click here to learn more about Advanced Energy United's work engaging with FERC and advocating for the expansion of wholesale markets.