Australian gov’t funds grid improvement project

It provided A$732,493 to Infravision Pty Ltd.

The Australian Government has provided A$732,493 funding for the “Next Generation Line Monitoring System” project led by Infravision Pty Ltd which was aimed to optimise grid performance through drone-enabled line enhancements to the electrical infrastructure.

In a statement, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency said Infravision will deploy and test “Next Generation” sensors on the New South Wales transmission network to provide Transgrid with high fidelity on selected lines.

The sensor stack which will be installed by drone on transmission lines will allow real-time microclimatic data that will expand transmission line capacity. 

“This data can be used to calculate a Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) that provides a more accurate and responsive measurement of transmission capacity, allowing higher volumes of electricity to be safely dispatched when conditions are suitable,” according to ARENA.

Most transmission operators are using static line ratings, according to ARENA.

READ MORE: Australian Government expands ARENA 2022-23 federal budget

“The electricity transition is going to require new generation and transmission on a massive scale. Infravision’s integrated Dynamic Line Rating solution can help get the most out of existing transmission lines,” said ARENA CEO Darren Miller.

“Allowing an increased flow of electricity through existing assets reduces the need for new infrastructure, keeping down costs for consumers and network operators,” he added.

The Australian Energy Market Operation has determined $12.7b new transmission projects needed for the energy transition under the 2022 Integrated System Plan.