Grid enhancing technologies (GETs) - All Electron - All about High Voltage systems

What are ‘Grid enhancing technologies’ (GETs)?

GETs are innovative solutions that improve the capacity, flexibility, and efficiency of electricity networks without the need for large-scale infrastructure expansions. Some of the most common examples of GETs for transmission lines are:

Dynamic Line Rating (DLR)

DLR systems [1] measure the actual temperature and weather conditions along transmission lines. This allows for dynamic adjustment of line capacity. This often results in higher capacities than static ratings based on conservative assumptions. DLR is increasingly popular, particularly in regions with high renewable energy penetration, as it allows utilities to better utilize existing infrastructure.

Advanced Conductors

These involve the use of new materials and designs for transmission conductors that allow for higher current capacities and better heat dissipation. Examples include high-temperature low-sag (HTLS) conductors [2] and conductors with a carbon fiber core. Advanced conductors are becoming more common. Especially in areas with aging infrastructure and high demand growth.

Power Flow Controllers

These are devices that can regulate the power flow through transmission lines. Examples include Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) such as series and shunt compensators, and the more recently developed Modular FACTS (M-FACTS), which can balance flows in real-time. Power flow controllers are widely used in congested networks where optimizing the power flow can significantly enhance capacity and reliability.

Topology Optimization

Software algorithms that optimize the network configuration by switching lines and transformers, helping to reduce congestion and increase efficiency without physical changes to the infrastructure [3]. Topology optimization is gaining traction as more utilities look to software-based solutions to enhance grid performance.

Grid Storage Integration

Integrating large-scale energy storage [4][5] such as battery storage or pumped hydro storage into the network can help balance supply and demand and provide additional capacity during peak loads. Grid storage integration is becoming increasingly popular, driven by the decreasing costs of battery storage and the need for more flexible grid operations.

Wide-Area Monitoring, Protection, and Control (WAMPAC)

These are advanced monitoring and control systems that use synchro-phasors (Phasor Measurement Units, PMUs) to collect and analyze real-time data from the network. This enables faster and more accurate operational decisions. WAMPAC systems are widely adopted in modern grid operations, especially in areas with complex and extensive transmission networks.

These technologies help grid operators extract more capacity from existing infrastructure, improve the reliability and resilience of the grid, and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. Their popularity varies, with some, like DLR and advanced conductors, seeing rapid adoption in areas with high renewable energy integration, while others like WAMPAC and power flow controllers are standard in advanced grid management systems.