Dynamic Transmission Line Rating

Technology Review

208478-CR-001 30 July 2009

Dynamic Transmission Line Rating - Technology Review 208478-CR-001

Revision No: 1 30 July 2009

Document information
Title Dynamic Transmission Line Rating Technology Review Client organisation Client contact Document number Project manager Project reference Electricity Commission of New Zealand John Gleadow 208478-CR-001 Angus Ketley / Geoff McDougall 208478

Revision history
Revision 1 Revision description Prepared by Reviewed by Approved by Distributed to Adonis Dino/Angus Ketley Geoff McDougall Donald Vaughan
(name) (signature) (date)

John Gleadow
(name)

Electricity Commission of New Zealand

(organisation) (date)

The concepts and information contained in this document are the property of Hydro Tasmania Consulting. This document may only be used for the purposes for which, and upon the conditions, the report is supplied. Use or copying of this document in whole or in part for any other purpose without the written permission of Hydro Tasmania Consulting constitutes an infringement of copyright.

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Executive Summary
The line rating represents the line current which corresponds to the maximum allowable conductor temperature for a particular line without clearance infringements or significant loss in conductor tensile strength due to annealing. This report deals primarily with the provision of ratings which ensure that the required clearances are not violated. However, this can be extended to other applications such as the management of annealing. Transmission of electric power has traditionally been limited by conductor thermal capacity defined in terms of a static line rating, which is based on a predetermined set of conditions. These conditions are incorporated into the design of the line to take into account statutory vertical clearances. In the last two decades, technologies and strategies have emerged to allow the real-time or pseudo-real-time measurement of transmission line characteristics and environmental conditions which enabled calculation of a real-time rating. Transmission line ratings are determined using the conductors heat balance and are dependent on the cooling effect of wind, warming due to line current, air temperature and solar heating. By accurately monitoring these conditions, a corresponding line current limit can be determined, thereby enabling the system operator to ensure that conductor temperature does not exceed the design limit, and maximises line utilisation under all conditions. Dynamic line rating methods can be broken down into two main categories: Weather based (indirect) The line rating is determined by measurement of ambient climatic conditions, and by means of the heat balance equation, to obtain the instantaneous conductor temperature rise available, and hence, the allowable current that can be transferred. Field data includes the following (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) Wind speed measured by an anemometer; Wind direction; Air temperature; Solar heat intensity; and Conductor parameters

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Sag based (direct) The line rating is determined by direct measurement of the conductors state. The actual conductor temperature can be calculated using the predetermined relationship between conductor position/tension and temperature. The heat balance equation is used to determine the additional current that can be transferred before the conductors maximum operating temperature is achieved. This method still requires the indirect parameters to be measured. However, it has the added benefit of providing a direct alarm should the conductor sag exceed or tension fall below a predetermined point that represents a violation of the required statutory ground clearance. Field data includes the following: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) Conductor position and or tension; Air temperature; Wind speed measured by an anemometer; Wind direction; Solar heat intensity; Line current; and Conductor parameters

Benefits and Considerations The benefits of dynamic line rating include but are not limited to; improved system reliability and safety, reduced and or deferred capital expenditure, increased efficiency of generation resources, and lower rates for utility customers. However, the following issues need to be considered, clearly understood, and evaluated accurately when applying either direct or indirect rating strategies: In line rating calculations, it is normally assumed that the conductors are in their as designed and as installed condition. The line to which dynamic rating is to be implemented should be inspected and its actual state confirmed prior to the application of available strategies.

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While in general new connectors and line hardware runs cooler than the conductor, older connectors and hardware may not. Unless periodically inspected, the use of system-wide line ratings could lead to line failures. It is common for measuring devices to be in a remote location. A high standard of reliability and durability is vital for effective real-time rating determination, as well as a robust power source and communication links. Orders of backup adjacent monitoring stations are important and watchdogs are necessary to monitor the integrity of the telemetered data elements. Dynamic rating does not eliminate the risk of violating statutory ground clearances. However, it does arm the network controller with much more information in order to better manage contingent events and periods of uncharacteristic weather conditions. The magnetic field of a transmission line increases with line ampacity, and increases at ground level with increased conductor sag. Even though transmission line voltage is managed to remain at the rated level, electric fields also need to be evaluated as its strength at ground level is affected by conductor sag. Overhead conductors elongate with time, temperature and tension. Despite the effects of weather and loading, the conductors have to remain at a safe distance from buildings, objects, and people or vehicles passing beneath and near the line at all times.

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Contents
1. 2. Introduction Current State of the Art 2.1 2.2 Background Line Rating Parameters 2.2.1 Measuring Climatic Conditions 2.2.2 Monitoring Conductor State Dynamic Line Rating Advantages and Disadvantages Consequences of too Optimistic Rating Assumptions 2.4.1 Clearance Violations 2.4.2 Conductor Annealing 2.4.3 Elevated Temperature Creep 1 3 3 4 4 5 6 8 8 8 8 9 11 11 11 11 12 15 15 15 15 16 16 17 19 20

2.3 2.4

3.

Australian Experience 3.1 3.2 NEMMCO Requirements 3.1.1 Selection of Short Time Ratings Tasmanian Rating Scheme 3.2.1 Background 3.2.2 Current Practice

4.

New Zealand Opportunities 4.1 4.2 Background The New Zealand Electricity Market 4.2.1 Market Design and Operation 4.2.2 Right of Capacity or Dispatch Transpowers Line Rating Process Possible Opportunities Implementation Considerations

4.3 4.4 4.5 5.

References

Appendices
Appendix. A Existing Dynamic Line Rating Technologies

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List of figures
Figure 3-1 Typical Daily Operation of the NEM [11] Figure 3-2 Completed Installation of a Load Cell to Monitor Conductor Tension in Tasmania Figure 3-3 Completed Installation of a Weather Station in Tasmania Figure A-1 Power Donut
TM

10 13 14 A-1
TM

( Courtesy of Underground Systems, Inc)

Figure A-2 On-line temperature monitoring system comprised of Power Donut and weather station and ground station RTU ( Courtesy of Nitech, Inc) Figure A-3 ThermalRate
TM

temperature sensors, A-2 A-3

Sensor
TM

Figure A-4 Completed Installation ThermalRate

Sensor

A-3

Figure A-5 A weather station with a 3D ultrasonic anemometer mounted next to a standard propellertype anemometer A-4 Figure A-6 Load Cells to measure tension Figure A-7 Completed Installation of Load Cells to measure tension Figure A-8 EPRIs Video Sagometer mounted on a wood pole Figure A-9 Sagometer Target Figure A-10 Proposed Basic Configuration of Differential GPS A-5 A-5 A-6 A-6 A-7

List of tables
Table 2-1 Simplified Comparison of Common Dynamic Line Rating Methods Table 2-2 Dynamic Line Rating System Advantages and Disadvantages Table 3-1 Seasonal Alternate Rating in Tasmania 6 7 12

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1.

Introduction

The Electricity Commission of New Zealand (EC) engaged Hydro Tasmania Consulting (HTC) to prepare a review of the application of real-time thermal rating to overhead lines in New Zealand, in an attempt to remove existing restrictions to the development of renewable generation sources. This review includes a description of possible strategies, the present state-of-the-art in Australia, specifically Tasmania, and a discussion of their possible application within the New Zealand network. This review does not provide a full assessment of the actual opportunities and benefits to New Zealand. This review should form part of an overall feasibility study into the use of dynamic rating technology in New Zealand, including a cost/benefit analysis.

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2.
2.1

Current State of the Art

Background

The steady state thermal current rating of a conductor is the level of current that induces the maximum steady state temperature for a given ambient condition. This temperature is based on the heat balance equation where conductor heat gain equals conductor heat loss:

Pj + Ps = Pr + Pc
The heat gain term, Pj, represents the joule heating due to resistance of the conductor. Ps is the solar heat gain (air temp and solar radiation). The heat loss term, Pc, represents natural and forced convection cooling (wind) while Pr denotes radiation cooling. Secondary terms of heat gain such as eddy currents and corona are not considered. Likewise, the evaporative cooling heat loss term is also discounted. Line resistance determines a level of Pj which, when combined with the remaining terms, results in a conductor temperature that ensures required clearances are maintained for safe operation of the line. This also ensures integrity of the conductor is not compromised through annealing or loss of grease. Rating strategies can be divided in two main groups; static and dynamic. Static line ratings in their simplest form involve the predetermination of worst-case weather conditions (the highest expected ambient temperature, a low wind speed, and a low conductor emissivity) along the entire line for an extended period of time. This assures the network operator that the conductor will not sag below the required vertical clearances at any point in the lines life. However, this assurance may be misguided during extreme climatic conditions over and above the predetermined criteria. The static rating approach also has the effect of underutilising the lines potential during climatic conditions below the predetermined criteria. This is especially important for the wind developers, as the simplified static model does not take ambient wind strengths or wind direction into account which would greatly increase the possible rating of the line. The Static rating model can be enhanced by the introduction of the lines geography, the time of year and the time of day; with ratings based on long term average conditions over the

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required periods. This approach results in a workbook or lookup table for each line and will provide for better utilisation of the line during times where the actual climatic condition match the long term averages. However, the possibility of missed opportunities is still present and the probability of falling below the required clearances on days where the ambient temperature exceeds the long term average is increased. The application of a Dynamic line rating strategy is quite different since the predetermination of the worst-case weather condition need only apply for the next 5 to 15 minutes. Clearly, dynamic ratings are likely to be higher than the static rating but have the disadvantages of volatility and unpredictability. [2] Quasi-dynamic line ratings are typically calculated for longer time periods than dynamic ratings and, while typically higher than static ratings, they can be more predictable and less variable than dynamic ratings. [2]

2.2

Line Rating Parameters

The following section discusses the parameters which may be measured in order to determine the rating of an overhead line. The current devices and technologies used to measure these parameters have been detailed in Appendix B. 2.2.1 Measuring Climatic Conditions

Transmission network operators typically prepare load capacity limits based on known seasonal conditions and wind speeds. These can be measured at locations throughout the network and provide the representative conditions for the region in question and, hence, the possible line rating. (a) Ambient Air Temperature

Typically, during winter-time, a line can be rated at higher capacity because at low ambient temperatures and the conductors will have a higher nominal load carrying capacity, due largely to their ability to dissipate heat. During summer, the line rating may decrease due to hotter ambient temperatures. (b) Wind Speed and Direction

Wind exerts a very strong cooling influence on the conductors irrespective of the ambient temperature and is, therefore, an important parameter in the determination of line capacity. However, the volatility of wind data can create some problems. Management strategies may

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include discounting wind direction, averaging the wind speed over a time period and or setting upper and lower bounds. (c) Solar Radiation

The level of direct and diffuse solar radiation can be reliably measured but is also volatile due to variable cloud cover. The real-time measurement of this parameter is generally discounted in favour of established solar radiation charts for the particular region. (d) Conductor Condition

The emissivity and absorptivity of a conductor depends on the conductors surface properties. Emissivity is a measure of the thermal radiation from the conductor while absorptivity is a measure of how much the conductor is heated by solar radiation, and hence both influence the heat balance equation. Conductor emissivity and absorptivity evolve over time as the conductor ages, collects dust and other particles, or is affected by pollution. Due to significant uncertainty in the current measure of emissivity and absorptivity, conductor manufacturers are generally satisfied with assigning conservative emissivity and absorptivity values to be used in dynamic rating of transmission lines. However, determining emissivity and absorptivity values more accurately could reap significant savings in the form of reduced conductor size or higher transmission line ratings. 2.2.2 Monitoring Conductor State

The actual state of the conductor can be measured to determine the amount of additional current that can be transferred by the line before the predetermined maximum conductor temperature is exceeded. The selection of the span to be measured is important, as it should be representative of the whole line. (a) Conductor Sag

Conductor sag is defined as the vertical distance between any point on a conductor and a straight line between the two attachment points. The conductor sag at any point in a given span is a function of the conductors mass per unit length (c), tension and the span length. Therefore, using measured sag, the conductor tension can be determined. This tension, when combined with the conductor parameters, can be converted into a corresponding conductor temperature. The heat balance equation is then used to determine the additional

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current that can be transferred before the conductors maximum operating temperature is achieved. (b) Conductor Tension

Conductor tension can be measured directly using a load cell within the tension insulator string. This value is then used in the same manner as described above. This process is complicated by the presence of wind, which has the dual effect of cooling the conductor and also effectively adding a component to the conductors unit load (c +h). To establish the line rating, direct measurements of the conductor must be made as well as the ambient conditions of wind and air temperature. (c) Conductor Temperature

The simplest strategy is to measure conductor temperature directly. This inherently takes into account all external influences. However, it does introduce the added complication of maintaining sensor isolation from the telemetry device.

2.3

Dynamic Line Rating Advantages and Disadvantages

Table 2-1 shows a simplified comparison of the common methods available for dynamic line ratings. A detailed assessment, including site specific considerations must be carried out for individual applications of dynamic line ratings. [3].
Table 2-1

Simplified Comparison of Common Dynamic Line Rating Methods

Cost Accuracy Normal Wind High Load good good good good good good Normal Wind Low Load good good low low low good High Load Low Wind low good good high high high High Load High Wind good good good good good good

Monitor

Purchase Cost

Install Cost

Maintain Cost

Line Outage

Measurement Reach

Weather Conductor Replica Temperature Tension Sag Combined

low low high high high low

low low medium high medium medium

low low high high high medium

no no no yes no yes

variable variable point multi span multi span multi span

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Table 2-2 summarises the possible advantages and disadvantages of the available systems for dynamic line rating.
Table 2-2

Dynamic Line Rating System Advantages and Disadvantages

Dynamic Line Rating System Weather Station

Advantage

Disadvantage

Simplest method to implement; Ideal for lines with relatively low current density of less than about 0.5 2 amps/mm [1]

Can be maintenance intensive; At low wind speeds, the prediction of wind direction and persistence is nearly impossible. Measured conductor temperature may or may not be a good estimate of the average conductor temperature along the line. Measured conductor temperature may or may not be a good estimate of the average conductor temperature along the line. Can be maintenance intensive.

Conductor Replica

A simple method to implement

Direct Temperature Measurement

Effectively prevents the loss of conductor strength at high temperature

Tension

Ideal for heavily loaded transmission lines with current density greater than 2 approximately 1 amp/mm . [1]; High accuracy for use in a line section with multiple suspension spans having nearly the same tension.

Sag

Ideal for heavily loaded transmission lines with current density greater than 2 approximately 1 amp/mm . [1]; High accuracy for use in a line section with multiple suspension spans having nearly the same tension.

Wind on conductor may affect the measured sag

Combined

Safest and an ideal method of dynamically rating transmission lines

High premium cost

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Combinations of both weather and physical line monitoring is clearly more expensive but will enable improved dynamic rating at both high and low conductor current densities. This is particularly important for lines requiring dynamic rating that may be lightly loaded with periods of near rated load.

2.4

Consequences of too Optimistic Rating Assumptions

When weather monitoring equipment produces a poor representation of weather conditions for a dynamically rated conductor, the conductor rated temperature may be significantly exceeded, which may result in: 2.4.1 Clearance Violations

During line design, the location and height of each structure in a pre-selected line route is determined using an assumed maximum conductor temperature and required statutory clearance to which the line is expected to operate. Transmission lines operated at temperatures higher than the designed temperature may result in clearance violations. 2.4.2 Conductor Annealing

When hard drawn aluminum conductors are operated at temperatures beyond their rated temperature, the aluminum starts to anneal. Annealing weakens the conductor and can potentially cause the conductor to break under wind or ice conditions. [17] 2.4.3 Elevated Temperature Creep

Permanent or irreversible elongation of the conductor is known to occur due to operation of the conductor at elevated temperature. The elongation is a result of molecular realignment of the conductors base material. Elongation increases conductor sag and reduces the conductor clearance to ground.

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3.

Australian Experience

Australias National Electricity Market (NEM) consists of six (6) regions - Queensland, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. It is the mechanism through which electricity is physically traded between registered generators and market customers. Trade in electricity takes place dynamically, 24-hours-a-day and seven-days-a-week. The National Electricity Market Management Company Limited (NEMMCO)1 is responsible for managing and operating NEM in accordance with the National Electricity Rules (NER). NEMMCO is required to balance supply with demand by scheduling the most cost-effective generators into production. Each Transmission Network Service Provider (TNSP) provides the necessary information to NEMMCO to allow it to forecast electricity consumption in each of the 6 regions, identify the capability of the transmission network to transmit electricity, and to capture the present state of the power system. NEMMCOs system issues dispatch instructions every five minutes after a set of rules (referred to as the dispatch algorithm) is applied to all dispatch bids, to determine the most cost-effective way to satisfy demand. The calculation takes into account any loss factors to be applied, the technical limitations of the system, and any bottlenecks or physical constraint that exist [11]. While forecasting demand and managing congestions on the network rely on the input and monitoring of operators, many of the processes that constitute NEM trade are automated through sophisticated information technology systems. Figure 3-1 shows that each day, NEMMCO prepares and publishes a pre-dispatch schedule that covers the supply and projected demand for all periods from the next trading interval to the final trading interval of the next trading day.

From 1 July 2009 NEMMCO ceased operations. NEMMCO's roles and responsibilities have transitioned to the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).

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Figure 3-1 Typical Daily Operation of the NEM [11]

3.1

Line Rating Principles

NEMMCOs ability to schedule generators to meet demand within NEM regions is sometimes limited by the physical transfer capacity of the transmission lines used to facilitate importing electricity. Each transmission line in the network has its own limit (line rating) which is dictated by its location, design, and operator. To determine this limit, all TNSPs apply the same secondary environmental parameters (except for wind speed and ambient temperature prevailing conditions in each geographic area is used) to the agreed equation in rating transmission lines. Each TNSP provides Static rating and Real-Time rating (if available). 3.1.1 Static ratings

Static ratings of lines are used for network planning and operation planning purposes and for operational circumstances where another form of rating is not available or necessary. This should include a Day-time and a Night-time rating for at least each month of the year which reflects the average-worse-weather conditions for the particular period that it is applied [3]. NEMMCO may request a continuous current rating and one or more short term current ratings as defined in NER. NEMMCO may require a TNSP to advise different current ratings to be applied under nominated conditions including, without limitation:

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1. 2. 3.

Ambient weather conditions; Seasons and/or times of day; Ratios of the current during an emergency to the current prior to the emergency (taking into account pre-contingent loading history where applicable); and

4. 3.1.2

The period of loading at the nominated level. Real-Time ratings

Real-Time rating (if available) is used over Static rating during favourable weather conditions to maximise the use of the transmission system. To provide a stable value, this rating should be calculated using the averaged measured data of weather conditions (accurate and timely measurements of wind speed and air temperature) which characterise the entire length of the line over a 10-minute period. The average measured data and calculated rating are provided to an energy control centre in a suitable format to realise any potential benefits [3].

3.2
3.2.1

Tasmanian Rating Scheme

Background

Hydro Tasmania commenced a dynamic rating strategy for transmission lines in the mid 1990s. This was brought on by the need to maximize the N-1 transfer capacity of a radial double circuit 110kV line in the event of a single circuit outage on that line during a major outage of a local power station. As this maximised transfer capacity was required for only a few months, this was achieved by the installation of an earthed safety span under the most critical 110kV span. In the event of a trip, the remaining circuit would pick-up the entire load until the sag approached the statutory ground clearance limit at which point the circuit would trip. This was a relatively crude strategy and fortunately was not engaged. This short term strategy led to the introduction of the CAT-1 system onto a number of lines deemed to be system critical either under normal or contingent operation. Initially the scheme measured tension only and used the span geometry to determine conductor temperature. The system would issue an alarm should the tension drop below a designated limit. This system has been augmented, and in some cases superseded, by the present day use of regional weather stations to determine ambient conditions and hence available rating. The present use of tension monitors is restricted, to provide a check for the main rating scheme and input into the anti-icing scheme, as they signal the commencement of conductor icing.

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In 2005, ownership of these weather stations was transferred to Transend Networks Pty Ltd (Transend), Tasmanias network asset owner and system operator.

3.2.2

Static Rating of Transmission lines

The selection of a particular rating is time based identified as follows: (a) 2 Season (Seasonal Rating)
Table 3-1 Seasonal Alternate Rating in Tasmania Season Summer (TASSUM) Winter (TASWIN) Start Start of December Start of March End End of February End of November

(b)

Temperature Based (Locational Rating)

To accommodate the temperature based ratings, temperature zones were defined (CENTRAL, NORTH, NORTH WEST, SOUTH, WEST and FAR NORTH WEST) and each end of all lines is allocated a temperature zone. Ratings for transmission lines within each zone are provided on a 5 degree incremental basis from 0 degrees to 40 degrees as Static rating data (historical static rating2). 3.2.3 Real-Time Rating Implementation

In Tasmania, the use of weather stations to support real time transmission line ratings is a valuable and cost effective means of maximising the utilisation of, and minimising constraints on, the existing transmission network. Transend maintains 15 weather stations and has 19 transmission line conductor tension monitors on 12 transmission circuits. The real-time weather information and measured conductor tension from these devices is telemetered from remote weather stations to Network Operation Centres (NOCs) via Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) at substations [9]. Rating software, TRCalc, uses circuit and conductor definition files, solar characteristics, and the worst measured data (lowest wind and highest ambient) from the primary and co-primary weather stations to calculate the real-time transmission circuit ratings using an enhanced Cigr method [9] [3]. The wind speed used in the calculation is de-rated and must
2

The historical static rating is stored in a workbook which serves as the last level of back-up for TRCalc.

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be between 0.5 and 2m/s to produce a conservative result. Together with the actual bus voltage, the Real-Time MVA rating is provided to NEMMCO for use in the 5 minute dispatch process. Transend has implemented a bi annual calibration, servicing and fault ratification program for the Circuit Rating & Weather Monitoring Systems and associated communication links. In the event of faults in the primary weather station, TRCalc uses the nearest among the two weather station backups. If all else fails, TRCalc will then use the historical static rating stored in a workbook. The fault is attended to at the earliest possible opportunity subject to weather conditions and resource availability. Where faulty, custom or obsolete components are identified, they are replaced with the latest commercially available parts where possible, thus, gradually upgrading the weather and tension monitoring stations.

Figure 3-2 Completed Installation of a Load Cell to Monitor Conductor Tension in Tasmania

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Figure 3-3 Completed Installation of a Weather Station in Tasmania

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4.
4.1

New Zealand Opportunities

Background

New Zealands transmission networks can be viewed as narrow and longitudinal, with areas of demand (load) commonly some distance from the areas of significant generation. Consequently, an extensive transmission system that allows generators to transfer energy with minimum losses has to be developed and maintained. The National Grid consists of: A high voltage AC transmission network made up of a grid back bone of 220kV and 110kV transmission lines that supply most of the major load centres; and An inter-island 350kV high voltage DC link that runs from Benmore in the South Island to Haywards in the North Island. This link includes 535km of double circuit overhead line from Benmore to Fighting Bay, a 40 km submarine cable between Fighting Bay and Oteranga Bay across the Cook Strait, and a further 37km double circuit overhead line between Oteranga Bay and Haywards (ref. North & South Islands Network Maps).

4.2

The New Zealand Electricity Market

In 1996, a deregulated electricity market was introduced to New Zealand. Transpower, as the system operator, is responsible for scheduling and dispatching generation at minimum cost according to market rules. In addition, Transpower is also responsible for providing ancillary services to the market including the management of reserves. The New Zealand Electricity Market (NZEM) was previously a self regulated market overseen by M-Co and the market surveillance committee. Since September 2003, market regulation has been conducted by the Electricity Commission (Commission). The Commission regulates the operation of the electricity industry and markets (wholesale and retail) in accordance with the Electricity Act and government energy policy. 4.2.1 Market Design and Operation

The operation of NZEM relies on its Scheduling, Pricing, and Dispatch (SPD) process to take generation offers and load bids that are used to determine the optimum clearing price for electricity at each of approximately 250 nodes in the power system.

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The Scheduling mode of SPD is used to forecast a schedule of generation for 13 to 35 hours ahead of time. Market participants (Generators and Loads) will make offers and bids to inject or take off power at each node in the power system. Reserves are also offered by Generators and contracted interruptible Loads. The offers and bids are associated with half hour trading periods. The SPD solver takes the offers and bids for a trading period and employs a linear programming solution to match generation to load at minimum cost, subject to constraints in the network. Forecast information on cleared generation and load (those that have had successful offers and bids) as well as nodal prices is then fed back to the market participants. The participants may then choose to alter their offers and bids and resubmit these for a subsequent scheduling solution, up to two hours ahead of dispatch. Dispatch occurs every five minutes through formal dispatch instructions sent electronically. There is no Automatic Governor Control (AGC) in New Zealand. 4.2.2 Right of Capacity or Dispatch

A connection to the National Grid does not result in any capacity rights for that connected party. Existing or future congestion on the national grid will affect the ability of a generator to deliver its energy to the market. Connection to the grid and participation in the electricity market does not guarantee that a generator will be dispatched at all times by the System Operator. A generator will not be dispatched where: There is sufficient lower priced generation to meed demand;
o

There are constraints on the power system that limit the amount of electricity that
o

the generating unit can produce; or The generator is non-compliant with the Asset Owner Performance Obligations
o

(AOPOs) and technical codes.

4.3

Transpowers Line Rating Process

Transpower currently applies a fixed summer and winter ambient temperature of, 30C and 20C, respectively, in a long-standing proprietary formula (Latta) developed by the New Zealand Electricity Department (NZED) to establish the seasonal ratings (Summer/Winter) of its transmission lines [18]. Transpower reported that the results of the

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Latta rating method are slightly higher compared to the results of modern rating methods, such as IEEE [19]. In 1996, Transpower began exploring the available DLR systems to increase the capacities of its major lines. Transpower have investigated the use of direct temperature monitoring and tension monitoring systems. The latter was selected to be installed on two of its lines as a trial setup utilising the hardware and software provided by Valley Group, USA. The analysis of the results provided by the experiment demonstrated the real capabilities of Transpower's transmission lines. The study concluded that dynamic line rating can contribute towards efficient control of transmission lines [14]. However, Transpower was not able to advance further due to the inflexibility of their legacy market system software [20]. In 2010, Transpower will be introducing additional shoulder seasonal (spring/autumn) ratings across all transmission lines. Region specific line ratings are also planned to be applied. Dynamic line rating will be trialled in one of its transmission routes in 2012.

4.4

Possible Opportunities

Dynamic line ratings are normally higher than static ratings and have the following advantages: 1. Although it may require accurate prediction of values up to a day ahead, dynamic ratings allow considerable market benefit due to more optimal generation dispatch calculations. 2. When dynamic normal ratings are available, Transpower may easily ascertain that normal load levels higher than the static rating do not require action, since the load does not surpass the dynamic rating. 3. When dynamic emergency ratings are available, low probability, post-contingency loads that exceed static emergency ratings may be less than dynamic emergency ratings, thus avoiding the need for Transpowers intervention to reduce load. To gain the benefits of implementing dynamic line ratings, Transpower would need to focus on overcoming constraints introduced by the current market processes and related software. Some of the issues that need to be addressed would include: 1. Market process

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a. For pre-dispatch schedules, forecast weather information could be used by employing a suitable tool for wind forecasting (Similar to wind generation dispatch) b. Temperature is telemetered to Transpower for use in dispatch time frame. Therefore, for the 2-hour gate closure, combinations of forecast and telemetered/local temperatures could be used. It should be noted that the only case for weather input would be to change risk/security criteria during storms. This is probably best done manually as at present. 2. Market software Processing of dynamic rating information was not possible in the previously used market software. This issue may now be addressed with the aid of the new market software, as it can be designed to accommodate variable line rating data. 3. Existing line rating calculation tools in SCADA/EMS (Overload Calculation Tools) a. Tools need updating to incorporate variable dynamic inputs of temperature b. The calculations have to be circuit specific c. Instead of 2 seasons or 4 seasons, the tools should be able to handle dynamic data e.g. temperature data of every time interval d. Engines suitable for handling large amounts of data e. Error checking / data validation 4. Accommodation of variable line rating during dispatch In dealing with variable line rating during the dispatch time frame and sudden changes in wind, fast acting monitoring tools in the DLR hardware, and similar processes as used for wind generation need to be considered for the implementation of dynamic line rating.

5. Implications for market participants over longer time scales. Variable transmission line ratings would require market participants to develop a more sophisticated understanding of available transmission capacity, as ratings would have to

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be predicted using static climate data. The degree of variability would be similar to wind generation and demand variation, and at times be coincident with it.

4.5

Implementation Considerations

Where required, existing transmission lines should be surveyed and studied to find out the critical span upon where the sensors are to be installed. Installation of tension monitors on selected tension structures are to be properly coordinated and scheduled as this requires a line outage. The cost of weather monitoring stations using standard propeller-type or cup-type anemometers is relatively low but they can be maintenance and calibration intensive. In fact, use of such anemometers is generally discouraged, as its reliability and accuracy decreases with time due to wear and tear of its mechanical components. Its use is further discouraged in areas where ice is expected to build up. The 3D ultrasonic anemometer (an expensive alternative) offers a more reliable and accurate readings. In general, transmission lines in rugged terrain, like that of New Zealand, may have many changes in direction. Thus, two or more sag or tension line monitors combined with two or more weather stations may be necessary to achieve monitoring data that is a good representation of the entire line. Whereas, when monitoring a straight section of transmission line using either sag or tension line monitors and a weather station, only one monitoring location is considered necessary. [1] In general, for short lines less than 10km, a single line section should be monitored if weather monitoring is the only form of field data used for dynamic rating. If the station used does not observe wind direction, the line rating should be calculated assuming a fixed wind heading angle of between 20 and 30 degrees from the line direction [1]. For longer lines using weather monitoring, at least two line sections should have operating weather stations. Ideally wind direction and wind speed would be measured simultaneously at several locations within each line section.

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5.
1

References
Probabilistic and Predictive Circuit Thermal Rating Technology. Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), Palo Alto, CA: 2006. 1012409

Increased Power Flow Through Transmission Circuits: Overhead Line Case Studies and Quasi-Dynamic Rating. Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), Palo Alto, CA: 2006. 1012533.

3 4 5

TNSP Operational Line Ratings (Draft). February 2009 Transpower Transmission Code (Preliminary Issue). 4 March 2009 Guide for Selection of Weather Parameters for Bare Overhead Conductor Ratings. CIGRE WG.B2.12, 2006. No.299

The ThermalRate System: A Solution for Thermal Uprating of Overhead Transmission Lines. Power Technology, April 2004, Newsletter Issue 95.

Deb, Anjan K., Powerline Ampacity System Theory, Modeling, and Applications. CRC Press, 2000

Strategic Energy Research - Dynamic Circuit Thermal Line Rating. Public Interest Energy Research (PIER), California Energy Commission, 1999. P600-00-036

Circuit Monitoring and Weather Monitoring System. Transend Networks Pty, Hobart Tasmania, 2007. TNM-SY-808-0221

10

Holbert, K.E. and Heydt GT, Prospects for Dynamic Transmission Circuit Ratings. Arizona State University, Arizona, USA

11

An Introduction to Australias National Electricity Market. National Electricity Market Management Company Limited (NEMMCO), 2005. Australia

12

2008 Statement of Opportunities for National Electricity Market. National Electricity Market Management Company Limited (NEMMCO), 2007. Australia

13

National Electricity Rules Version 28. Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC), 2009. Australia

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14

Raniga, J.K.; Rayudu, R.K. Dynamic rating of transmission lines-a New Zealand experience. Power Engineering Society Winter Meeting, 2000. IEEE Volume 4, Issue , 2000 Page(s):2403 - 2409 vol.4

15

Increased Power Flow Guidebook Increasing Power Flow in Transmission and Substation Circuits. Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), Palo Alto, CA: 2005. 1010627.

16

Instrumentation for Increasing Power Flow: Needs, Concepts, Feasibility, and Benefits. Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), Palo Alto, CA: 2005. 1012534.

17

Morgan, V.T., The Loss of Tensile Strength of Hard-drawn conductors by Annealing in Service. IEEE Transactions, Power Engineering Society. 1978.

18

Khot, Milind. Use of Probabilistic Temperatures in the Calculation of Transmission Line Ratings using PLS-CADD. Transpower.

19

Transpower Response to EC Request for Information (EC letter dated 12 October 2005). Transpower. 10 November 2005.

20

Simpson, Bob. Line Rating Review. Transpower. 12 June 2009.

The information contained in this document has been carefully compiled but Hydro Tasmania Consulting takes no responsibility for any loss or liability of any kind suffered by any party, not being the intended recipient of this document, in reliance upon its contents whether arising from any error or inaccuracy in the information or any default, negligence or lack of care in relation to the preparation of the information in this document.

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Appendices

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Appendix. A Existing Dynamic Line Rating Technologies

There is a distinction to be made between the real-time monitoring and dynamic rating of overhead lines. Real-time monitoring is easy, but less useful in guiding operator actions than providing dynamic ratings. The following are examples of line monitors typically used by various utilities in facilitating their dynamic rating schemes:

A.1

Conductor Temperature Sensors

The accuracy of conductor temperature sensors depends on how close the measured conductor temperature at one spot is to the average line section temperature. It has been observed that conductor temperature can vary significantly along its length due to large variations in wind speed and direction. A.1.1 Direct Conductor Temperature Monitors

Power DonutTM incorporate a clamp-on thermocouple attached directly to the energized conductor (see Figure A-1) and linked to a ground station by radio (see Figure A-2).

Power Donut

TM

Figure A-1 ( Courtesy of Underground Systems, Inc)

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Figure A-2 TM On-line temperature monitoring system comprised of Power Donut temperature sensors, and weather station and ground station RTU ( Courtesy of Nitech, Inc)

Real-time conductor temperature, meteorological data, and line current provide continuous input to a computer system where line ampacity is calculated. The computer system requires special hardware and software for data acquisition from remote sensor locations via special telecommunication networks. A.1.2 Indirect Conductor Temperature Monitors

ThermalRateTM Sensor (see Figure A-3) is basically made up of two aluminium rods which function as simple conductor replicas. The replica, chosen to be the same material and diameter as the line conductor, is used to determine the line capacity by measuring how the weather conditions heat and cool the conductor. [6] The heated and unheated replicas are relatively long in order to minimize the affect of thermal boundary losses. An internal thermocouple near the longitudinal centre measures the temperature of each replica. The ThermalRate Sensor is located near the line and pointed in the same direction as the line conductors (see Figure A-4) in order to experience the same weather conditions as the line itself. [6]

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Figure A-3 TM ThermalRate Sensor

Figure A-4 TM Completed Installation ThermalRate Sensor

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A.2

Weather stations

Weather stations generally measure wind speed and direction, air temperature, solar intensity, and rain. Knowing the line current and weather conditions in real-time, the conductor temperature near the weather monitor can be calculated in real-time. [2] Weather stations can include standard propeller-type anemometers, or the more sophisticated 3D ultrasonic units. The latter are quite expensive, but have no moving parts and are therefore very reliable, are very accurate even at low wind speeds, and can measure vertical air movement. Figure A-5 shows a photograph of a weather station with both anemometer types. [2]

Figure A-5 A weather station with a 3D ultrasonic anemometer mounted next to a standard propeller-type anemometer

A.3

Line Tension Monitors

A load cell (see Figure A-6) placed on the grounded side of dead-end insulator string (see Figure A-7) can be used to monitor line tension in real-time. The measured line tension is then converted to average conductor temperature of the line section.

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A base station is mounted on the structure and connected to the load cells by cable. Communication to a base station is usually by spread spectrum radio and the units can be solar powered. The line is normally de-energized when the load cells are installed. [2]

Figure A-6 Load Cells to measure tension

Figure A-7 Completed Installation of Load Cells to measure tension

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A.4

Sag Monitors

Figure A-8 EPRIs Video Sagometer mounted on a wood pole

The camera unit is typically mounted on one of the structures, as shown in (Figure A-8) of the line being monitored, but it could be mounted on any appropriate structure in the vicinity. A small, passive, reflective target (see Figure A-9) is placed on the conductor being monitored. A low-power solid-state illuminator (diode laser or LED-based device) is mounted with the camera to illuminate the target at night or when ambient light is not sufficient. [2]

Figure A-9 Sagometer Target

Image recognition algorithms residing in local firmware determine the position of the target within the cameras field of view. The targets ground clearance is determined from that position through a calibration procedure performed during installation. The conductors sag

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and/or ground clearance is determined at any point along the span from the catenary equation. [2] The systems can be powered by solar-cell/battery arrangements, or by standard AC distribution power if available at the site. The systems, including the targets, can readily be installed on energised EHV transmission lines, or readily removed and relocated. [2]

A.5

Global Positioning System (GPS) Based

A recently proposed method to measure conductor sag known as Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) uses two GPS measurements with one at a precisely known point which makes it possible to correct errors in the remote measurement. Only one phase of a circuit would be instrumented in a critical span. From the base station, hard-wire is used to bring position data to power system operators.

Figure A-10 Proposed Basic Configuration of Differential GPS

A-7