When responding to FERC Order 881 and enhancing grid capacity, a universal approach of one-size-fits-all doesn’t suffice. Transmission grids differ based on location and climate, requiring tailored strategies for optimal capacity enhancement.
Prisma Photonics CEO Dr. Eran Inbar will speak on this topic at DISTRIBUTECH International, the leading annual transmission and distribution event, presenting a novel integrated method that combines ambient adjusted rating (AAR) & direct line rating (DLR) and is tailored to grid-specific needs. This method uses optical fiber sensing technology to accurately measure wind metrics directly from power lines, removing the need for additional sensors.
Inbar’s session, AAR & DLR Fusion: Enhancing Transmission Grid Capacity Using Optical Fiber Sensing Techniques, takes place Feb. 28, from 11 am – 11:30 am.
Inbar founded Prisma Photonics in 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, he is an enthusiastic triathlete in his diminishing free time.
“With FERC Order 881, which mandates utilities to adopt and apply AAR for transmission lines by July 12, 2025, the need for large-scale grid monitoring is stronger than ever,” Inbar said. “A solution based on optical fiber sensing, which uses existing fibers as continuous sensors, can address the challenge, spanning thousands of miles of transmission lines. Such a solution enhances the grid’s reliability on a scale never seen before. With distributed and continuous monitoring that pinpoints the faulty locations all along the line and scales up to grid sizes, TSOs can start reducing maintenance costs as events are reported with accurate locations and in real-time.”
As far as attending DISTRIBUTECH, Inbar says he and Prisma Photonics are most looking forward to discussions and solutions centered on the energy transition and investments in advanced transmission management systems and energy management.
“As a company specializing in transmission network monitoring, we are thrilled to be part of this conference,” he said. “The integration of new, digital technologies that maximize power network utilization is a quick win while meeting environmental goals and improving much-needed grid reliability.”
Inbar says in his opinion, the most pressing issue facing the U.S. grid is its aging and intricate infrastructure. With the nationwide target of 100% clean electricity by 2035 and net-zero emissions by 2050, the grid risks further congestion, costliness, and inefficiencies as it ages if proactive measures are not taken.
“In the U.S. alone, transmission line buildout will take decades and require tremendous financial and operational resources,” Inbar said. “Therefore, DLR and other grid-enhancing technologies, such as ours, can be a key solution to meet modern energy demands, especially in integrating renewable energy sources and unlocking capacity for the existing grid, making it smarter, digital, and much more efficient.”
