SWIS network operator deploys dynamic system to control power ‘speed limits’

Western Australia (WA)-owned South West Interconnected System (SWIS) network operator Western Power has launched a dynamic line rating (DLR) system that enables control over how much power can travel through lines using real-weather data and solar irradiance.

Now being used live, the new technology can increase the capacity of Western Power’s transmission network to enhance the use of renewable energy.

The lines are currently rated using a static calculation based on assumptions for variables like ambient temperatures and solar irradiance, to indicate the maximum amount of electricity an asset can safely handle.

Western Power Acting Executive Manager Asset Management Ben Bristow said DLR has been rolled out on a select number of lines with results informing future plans and further roll-out. 

“Using DLR, any variance in environmental, type of asset and location conditions will automatically re-rate a line to maximise its capacity and minimise any risk,” Bristow said. 

“DLR will allow us to increase the capacity of the line, meaning renewable generators can feed in more power to the network.”

Bristow added, the system allows for taking advantage of the lower solar irradiance as the sun sets and overnight, which will help with evening peak demand. 

“The project will help us gauge the viability of adopting DLR across the network enabling us to explore the optimal approach to deliver another innovative project for the Western Australian community.”