Fortune 500 energy company AES is working with Massachusetts-based LineVision on a joint project to assess how grid enhancing technologies (GETs) can increase transmission capacity on the existing power grid.

Through this pilot, the companies will gather data using dynamic line ratings (DLRs) to evaluate how LineVision can optimally integrate power from renewable energy sources. The study is being launched this month and will conclude before the end of the year.

The project will leverage LineVision’s DLR for a proposed deployment at an AES utility based on a study to determine locations best suited for the most beneficial impact to the system and customers.

“There are several exciting technologies that can be used to enhance the capacity of our grid,” said Kristina Lund, president of AES Utilities. “AES looks to lead the industry in deploying advanced technologies, like DLR, that allow us to deliver safe, reliable and affordable energy to our customers as the demands for increasingly green energy and electrified communities grow.”

The advantage of deploying this technology is timely. According to a Princeton University study, the USA will need to more than double the transmission buildout to meet 2050 net-zero emissions goals.

Utilities are uniquely positioned to accelerate the decarbonisation of the electric grid by increasing transmission capacity on existing assets to unlock transmission constraints and relieve grid congestion. Virginia-based AES continues to be a proactive innovator pursuing technologies and driving local adoption.

“As we urgently move towards a net-zero future, utilities can test and bring on new technology to avoid system reliability issues while integrating record levels of renewables,” said Hudson Gilmer, chief executive officer of LineVision. “GETs are the enabling tool needed to accelerate our path to a decarbonised grid. We are excited to work with AES on this important project.”

LineVision’s DLR technology has been shown to increase transmission capacity on existing lines quickly and at a fraction of the cost of traditional transmission upgrades while doubling the integration of renewable energy capacity on the grid. This technology can help grid operators gain real-time awareness of the health and performance of transmission lines, enhancing safety and longevity, while congestion costs to ratepayers and curtailment costs to developers are reduced.

LineVision provides electric utilities with real-time monitoring and analytics to accelerate the net-zero grid. Its patented non-contact sensors collect critical information to unlock additional capacity on existing lines, provide insight into conductor health, and detect anomalies and risks. The platform can be rapidly deployed at scale without the need for scheduled outages, live line work or special installation equipment.