#Germany #Prisma Photonics #Dynamic Line Rating #TransnetBW #Southwest Germany

TransnetBW's Innovative AI-Driven Technology Implementation

In a significant move towards modernizing electrical infrastructure, TransnetBW GmbH has embarked on a collaborative evaluation program with Prisma Photonics, focusing on the deployment of innovative line monitoring technology over 120 kilometers of transmission lines in southwest Germany. This initiative is vital in addressing the challenges posed by the increasing demand for renewable energy and the necessity for efficient grid operation without excessively expanding infrastructure.

Prisma Photonics, a pioneer in grid monitoring solutions using cutting-edge optical fiber sensing technology, is facilitating this evaluation to test its PrismaPower™ system. The collaboration between TransnetBW, one of Germany's four main transmission system operators, and Prisma Photonics aims to enhance the dynamic line rating capabilities initiated by TransnetBW since 2019 through its Weather-dependent Overhead Line Operation initiative. The traditional static ratings have become inadequate, given the rapidly changing utilization patterns due to the growth of wind and solar energy in Germany.

The pressing issue at hand involves maximizing the transmission capacity of the existing grid to accommodate the increasing generation of renewable energy sources, a challenge made even more pressing by the substantial financial losses attributed to grid congestion and renewable energy curtailment, which reportedly exceeded $3 billion in 2023.

Through the deployment of Prisma Photonics' Beacon systems along three critical transmission lines, the evaluation program seeks to explore how the existing monitoring system of TransnetBW can be enhanced using Prisma's technology. Gernot Tuschewitzki, Head of DLR Project and an Overhead Line Technology Engineer at TransnetBW, expressed optimism, noting that Prisma Photonics' fiber optic sensor technology presents promising advancements for dynamically managing transmission capacity based on real-time operational conditions. Noteworthy features include the capability to record wind conditions and monitor events such as lightning strikes, all through a single measurement platform.

The significance of this partnership extends to broader objectives aligned with European Union climate neutrality goals for 2050, ensuring a flexible grid that can handle up to 70% cross-zonal capacity. Additionally, it addresses the cost pressures arising from congestion and redispatch, as well as adherence to Germany's Network Development Plan (Netzentwicklungsplan).

Reflecting on the partnership's potential impact, Dr. Eran Inbar, the CEO of Prisma Photonics, emphasized the necessity for utilities to leverage existing fiber infrastructure to facilitate the integration of more renewable energy while effectively managing grid congestion. As one of Germany's pivotal transmission operators, TransnetBW recognizes that implementing dynamic line ratings is crucial for optimizing grid capacity and supporting the energy transition, making strides toward a more sustainable future.

Prisma Photonics' technology is already operational across thousands of kilometers of transmission networks managed by leading utilities in various regions including the United States and Europe. Not only does this illustrate the scalability of their fiber optics technology, but it also emphasizes its role in achieving environmental and renewable energy targets while maintaining operational excellence during the transition to net-zero emissions.

In conclusion, the collaboration between TransnetBW and Prisma Photonics marks a significant step toward sustainable energy management, ensuring that Germany remains at the forefront of renewable energy innovation and infrastructure development. As the country navigates the challenges of modern energy demands, this partnership is pivotal in its journey toward a greener and more efficient electricity grid.