
How can transmission line losses be reduced?
2025-08-12Reducing losses is crucial for improving grid efficiency and managing costs. As a manufacturer of power line equipment, we focus on providing tools and materials that help minimize these losses. Key methods include:
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High-Voltage Transmission: The most effective way to reduce losses is to transmit power at higher voltages, which lowers the current for a given amount of power. This is why EHV (Extra-High Voltage) lines like 400 kV are used for long-distance transmission.
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Conductor Optimization: Using conductors with a larger cross-sectional area and low resistance materials (e.g., aluminum conductors with steel reinforcement) directly reduces I²R losses. Our stringing equipment is designed to handle these larger and often bundled conductors.
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Power Factor Correction: Maintaining a high power factor reduces the reactive current in the line, which in turn minimizes overall current flow and I²R losses. This is often achieved using shunt capacitors or more advanced Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS).
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Regular Maintenance and Modernization: Regularly inspecting and maintaining lines, as well as using modern equipment and smart grid technologies, can identify and fix issues like loose connections or faulty components that contribute to losses.