In response to new regulatory requirements set by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for 2025, emphasizing enhanced grid resilience, greater renewable energy integration, and cybersecurity measures, Green River Energy has partnered with Heimdall Power to enhance its power line capacity significantly.
Heimdall Power’s Neuron, an advanced industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) device, lies at the heart of this collaboration. Engineered for meticulous monitoring of high-voltage power lines, the Neuron provides real-time, accurate data on critical electrical parameters such as voltage, current, line frequency, diameter, and temperature. This data is indispensable for utilities in ensuring the efficient operation and reliability of power distribution networks. Notably, the Neuron’s versatility spans a wide range of voltages (0-550 kV) and current levels (0-3000 A), making it adaptable for projects of any scale and resilient across diverse environmental conditions with its operational temperature range (-40 to 248ºF).
One of the key features of the Neuron is its plug-and-play nature, facilitating effortless installation via hot-stick or drone and ensuring operational readiness with minimal setup. Additionally, it supports firmware updates over the air and reliable communication through LTE-M and NB-IOT protocols. Compliant with FERC Order 881, the Neuron has garnered trust in the energy sector, being utilized by over 35 utilities in 17 countries.
Great River Energy recently showcased the efficacy of Heimdall Neurons by integrating the innovative sphere-shaped sensors onto its power lines. This integration led to an impressive 25% average increase in power line capacity, with peaks reaching as high as 42.8% on specific lines. By collecting and analyzing data on current, line angle, temperature, and weather conditions using the Neurons, teams at Great River Energy leveraged machine learning algorithms to refine capacity adjustments accurately and timely. This transition from static to dynamic line ratings unveiled previously unknown instances of lines being overloaded, enhancing grid reliability and safety.
The collaboration between Green River Energy and Heimdall Power exemplifies forward-thinking in addressing the increasing pressure on the power grid. As demand for electricity is expected to nearly double over the next 30 years, innovative solutions like dynamic line rating hold promise in optimizing existing infrastructure efficiently. This partnership not only underscores the vital role of technology in achieving sustainability and efficiency in the energy sector but also sets a precedent for proactive measures in navigating the future of energy distribution.