National Grid: Dynamic Tech Enhances New York Power Lines
National Grid is implementing cutting-edge technology across New York State to unlock additional capacity from existing infrastructure, supporting the drive towards a net-zero grid.
With more than 40% of CO₂ emissions stemming from fossil fuel-based electricity generation, transitioning to renewable energy is crucial for mitigating climate change. However, current power grids often lack the flexibility needed to handle the variable supply from renewables.
National Grid deploys advanced tech to boost grid efficiency
To address this, National Grid has introduced Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) technology on transmission lines in Upstate New York in collaboration with LineVision.
Brian Gemmell, Chief Operating Officer, Electric Operations for New York at National Grid, emphasised the significance of this technology.
“Dynamic Line Ratings are a start to helping us make decisions on how to plan and operate the grid, further unlocking renewables and reducing transmission congestion for New Yorkers,” he said.
Pioneering DLR technology in New York State
Following a successful pilot, National Grid has fully deployed LineVision’s patented LineRate DLR software and sensor platform on four 115kV transmission lines in Upstate New York.
The non-contact sensors, which are integral to this system, are now actively feeding condition-specific line ratings into National Grid’s transmission control room. This technology has significantly increased the renewable energy capacity carried over these lines, demonstrating its potential for broader application.
LineVision’s technology isn’t limited to the US — National Grid is also planning to roll out this system on some of its lines in the UK, further enhancing its global grid efficiency.
LineVision and National Grid’s collaboration for a net-zero future
National Grid, a leading British multinational electricity and gas utility company, is driving innovation in the energy sector.
Founded in 1990, the company employs more than 31,000 people and reported a revenue of US$26.9bn in 2023. Committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, National Grid is exploring various technological advancements to enhance grid efficiency and build new infrastructure.
John Pettigrew, Group CEO at National Grid, said: “National Grid is committed to shaping a sustainable economy for all, in partnership with others in our industry and beyond.”
As part of its innovation strategy, National Grid Partners — its corporate venture arm — has invested more than US$450 million in emerging technologies, including LineVision.
LineVision, established in 2018, provides real-time monitoring and analytics crucial for optimising the grid. Its non-contact sensors, combined with advanced software, enable reliable DLRs, line monitoring and grid analytics.
According to Hudson Gilmer, Co-Founder and CEO at LineVision: “With accelerating load growth and congestion, a diverse set of solutions is crucial to enhancing grid capacity, starting with maximising the potential of the existing grid.”
DLR technology aims to maximise the load on electric power transmission lines without compromising safety. By providing accurate, real-time data on line conditions, DLR can unlock up to 40% additional capacity on existing lines, bridging the gap until new transmission projects are completed, which can take more than 15 years.
Jonathan Marmillo, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer at LineVision, explained the current limitations utilities face.
“Utilities currently operate with ‘static ratings’ for their transmission lines, which essentially act like a speed limit for how much power they can flow over the lines,” he said.
LineVision’s sensors offer a more dynamic solution, using lasers to track line movement and weather conditions that affect line performance.
Through its partnership with LineVision and its continued investment in innovative technologies, National Grid is not only enhancing its current infrastructure but also paving the way for a sustainable, energy-efficient future. As the energy landscape evolves, such collaborations are crucial for meeting the demands of a net-zero world.
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