The U.S. power transmission grid, aging and intricate, is at a crossroads. With a national target to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035 and net-zero emissions by 2050, the current transmission network faces notable challenges. Aging infrastructure, congestion issues, and the hurdles in integrating renewable energy sources due to grid limitations stand tall.
Against this backdrop, FERC has introduced initiatives like Order 881, which mandates transmission providers to adopt and apply Ambient Adjusted Rating (AAR) capabilities for transmission lines by July 12, 2025. But is this enough to meet the growing demand for more electric power and increase the grid's capacity?
In his forthcoming Innovation Stage session on Tuesday, May 7, from 1:45 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., the CEO of Prisma Photonics, Dr. Eran Inbar, will present an integrated method for sensorless transmission grid monitoring, using optical fiber sensing, which takes advantage of the existing optical fibers on the power network (the Optical Ground Wire, the OPGW on top of the network). It allows monitoring for thousands of miles without installing outdoor sensors on the grid.
In the session, he will dig deep into grid challenges, emphasizing the critical role of large-scale monitoring in ensuring the power network’s reliability across diverse geographies and varied environmental conditions. By presenting an optical fiber-based monitoring solution, the company will discuss an integrated methodology, ensuring a tailored fit to operator network constraints and capacity needs while combining Ambient Adjusted (Line) Ratings (AAR) and Dynamic Line Ratings (DLR).
This FERC Order 881 compliant solution offers precise wind metrics measurements directly from the power line, removing the need for additional external sensors. This Grid Enhancing Technology captures detailed data that can also point out electrical faults, extreme weather conditions, and any physical vandalism that risks the power lines and towers.
By exploring this data-driven approach, grid professionals will gain insights into optimizing the transmission grid, paving the way for seamless integration of renewable energy projects and ensuring a resilient, future-ready energy infrastructure.
The session will be led by Dr. Eran Inbar, the Founder of Prisma Photonics since 2017. Previously, he founded and managed V-Gen (2001-2016), a dominant player in the fiber laser field. Eran holds a Ph.D. in Physical Electronics from Tel-Aviv University with many novel laser patents. Also, an enthusiastic triathlete in his diminishing free time.
Presentation Title: Sensorless Transmission Grid Monitoring - Expanding Beyond Traditional Horizons
Stage Type: Innovation Stage Presentation
Session Date: Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Presentation Start and End Time: 1:45 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.
