Duquesne Light Company (DLC) recently partnered with LineVision to install no-contact sensors on several transmission towers across DLC’s service territory. The pilot project, which began in July, uses real-time and forecasted dynamic line ratings to monitor transmission conductors and uncover additional grid capacity with the purpose of making service more resilient, efficient and affordable.
Earlier this year, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission proposed line rating guidelines to encourage utilities to use this ground-breaking technology. Data that’s gathered from DLC’s program will help address line congestion, assess line conditions and better determine when maintenance is required.
“This project is part of DLC’s multi-year, $2.6 billion investment in innovative technologies that enable us to modernize the grid and continue meeting the energy demands of our customers. Overall, our goal is to provide affordable, reliable, safe and sustainable service, and this project hits all of those areas,” said Josh Gould, director of innovation at DLC. “As one of the first electric utilities to use this technology, we can unlock greater capability on our existing transmission lines while also making it easier for more generation assets, including renewable energy, to be added to the grid. We are looking forward to the many benefits this project will bring to our customers and communities.”
“Record-setting demand for energy and changing system dynamics are tasking utilities with the challenge of how to best maintain system reliability while simultaneously transitioning how we deliver power,” added Jonathan Marmillo, vice president of product at LineVision and the company’s co-founder. “DLC is at the forefront of innovative thinking on how to solve these issues, and we are delighted to work with its team on this important initiative.”
