NYPA optimises transmission network with LIDAR technology
The New York Power Authority (NYPA) has deployed LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensors on its 230KV transmission network for enhanced monitoring in Franklin and Clinton counties.
NYPA says the technology will enable more renewable energy capacity to be transported and integrated on the grid for network stability and sustainability.
Data derived from the sensors will also be used to track the health and safety operations of the transmission lines. The technology will enable NYPA to detect anomalies and potential risks and attend to them before they disrupt services.
This will in turn help improve customer services and increase the lifespan of the transmission infrastructure through optimal maintenance, according to a statement, as well as accelerate the energy transition.
NYPA says the technology will help reduce congestion on the transmission network and enable grid modernisation and climate action goals set under the VISION2030 and Climate Act, respectively, to be realised. New York has a target to produce 70% of its electricity from renewables by 2030 and 100% by 2040.
Recent studies have shown grid-enhancing technologies can help double renewable energy integration, while dynamic line ratings have shown the ability to increase capacity on power lines by as much as 40%.
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The technology adopted by NYPA was developed by Boston-based LineVision and deployed using a $376,000 grant secured from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s Smart Grid programme. The sensors are installed on transmission towers to monitor conductor positions and temperatures.
In addition, the system provides real-time situational awareness, measuring blowout and phase-to-phase distance, alerting on dangerous conditions that can cause wildfires or anomalous and damaging events such as high amplitude vibrations and icing.
Justin E.Driscoll, the interim CEO of NYPA, said the project is part of efforts to transition to a “reliable, flexible, clean energy grid of the future.”
Driscoll added that the technology will help protect the transmission network “from the effects of climate change.”
Doreen M. Harris, the CEO of NYSERDA, said: “This collaborative effort between NYPA and LineVision to develop innovative non-contact technology provides real-time data regarding current conditions with power lines, helping to improve reliability of our transmission assets. Being able to anticipate what preventative maintenance is needed to optimise and ensure the safety of the State’s power lines will help us scale up our grid modernisation efforts and integrate more renewable energy.”
Hudson Gilmer, the CEO of LineVision, added: “NYPA is continuing to demonstrate its commitment to reliably delivering low-cost energy by utilizing innovative technologies, such as LineVision, to optimise the existing grid.
“Grid enhancing technologies like dynamic line ratings can help New York State meet its ambitious climate goals sooner by unlocking previously unavailable grid capacity allowing for accelerated integration of renewable energy.”
