KPTCL pilots new tech on Bengaluru corridor, targets 25 pc increase in transmission capacity without new infrastructure

BENGALURU: In a major step towards modernising Karnataka’s power transmission network, the Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) has launched a pilot project to implement Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) technology on the 220 kV Puttenahalli–Sahakarnagar transmission corridor in Bengaluru, with the objective of enhancing transmission capacity by up to 25 per cent without any additional capital investment in new infrastructure.

The Letter of Intent (LoI) for the project has already been issued, making KPTCL one of the first state transmission utilities in South India to adopt the advanced technology. The initiative is aimed at unlocking additional capacity from the existing transmission network without constructing new towers or acquiring additional land.

“Karnataka continues to lead the country in adopting innovative technologies in the power sector. The Dynamic Line Rating project being implemented on the Puttenahalli–Sahakarnagar corridor will enable us to maximise the utilisation of existing transmission infrastructure and significantly enhance grid capacity. This initiative will help meet the state’s growing power demand without requiring major capital investments and will play a key role in building a future-ready electricity network”. —K J George, Minister for Energy

The DLR system replaces the conventional Static Line Rating (SLR) methodology with a real-time monitoring framework powered by advanced IoT-enabled sensors. These sensors continuously monitor critical parameters such as ambient temperature, wind speed, solar radiation, and conductor sag, enabling grid operators to dynamically assess and optimise transmission line capacity based on actual weather conditions.

The technology assumes greater significance as Karnataka witnesses rapidly increasing electricity demand driven by urbanization, electric vehicle adoption, data centres, and AI-enabled industrial growth. By leveraging real-time data, KPTCL expects to improve asset utilisation and strengthen grid efficiency without major infrastructure expansion.

“Dynamic Line Rating will enable KPTCL to make real-time, data-driven operational decisions, improving transmission network efficiency and reliability. The technology will help us unlock additional capacity from existing assets and support Karnataka’s rapidly growing electricity demand in a cost-effective manner”. — Dr V Ram Prasath Manohar, Managing Director, KPTCL

The Puttenahalli–Sahakarnagar 220 kV line has been selected as the pilot corridor to validate the operational benefits of the technology. Based on the results, KPTCL plans to evaluate deployment across other high-load transmission corridors and renewable energy evacuation networks across the state.

The initiative forms part of KPTCL’s broader grid modernization roadmap aimed at building a resilient, digitally enabled, and sustainable transmission system capable of supporting Karnataka’s future energy requirements.

What is Dynamic Line Rating (DLR)?

Static Line Rating (SLR): The Conventional Method

Under the traditional Static Line Rating system, transmission line capacity is calculated based on worst-case weather conditions, such as extreme heat and low wind speeds. While this approach prioritises safety, it often results in underutilisation of transmission infrastructure.

Even when weather conditions are favourable and transmission lines are capable of carrying more electricity, operators cannot exceed the pre-determined limits. It is similar to enforcing a low speed limit on a highway even when traffic and road conditions allow vehicles to travel safely at higher speeds. As a result, a significant portion of the grid’s potential capacity remains unused.

Dynamic Line Rating (DLR): Unlocking Hidden Capacity

Dynamic Line Rating is an intelligent, real-time technology that continuously monitors actual operating conditions on transmission lines.

Smart sensors installed on conductors track parameters such as wind speed, ambient temperature, solar radiation, and conductor sag. During cooler and windier conditions, transmission lines naturally dissipate heat more effectively and can safely carry higher loads.

DLR captures these real-time conditions and enables operators to utilise the additional capacity safely. Through this technology, KPTCL expects to unlock up to 25 per cent additional transmission capacity from existing infrastructure without building new transmission towers or undertaking costly network expansion.

In simple terms, DLR allows utilities to deliver more power through the same transmission network by replacing conservative assumptions with real-time operational intelligence.