Advanced Solutions For Minimizing Right-Of-Way In Transmission Lines – CEA Report

The report covers the technological options aimed at reducing the Right-of-Way (RoW) required for transmission lines through methods such as using insulated cross-arm insulators, monopole towers, and High Temperature Low Sag (HTLS) conductors. These technologies are critical in minimizing the land required for power transmission, especially in congested urban areas and environmentally sensitive zones like forests.

The report outlines a committee’s constitution tasked with calculating RoW width under different conditions. The committee comprised representatives from multiple power transmission companies, including Powergrid, KPTCL, and Sterlite, as well as experts from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). Their goal was to explore methods to optimize RoW through technological innovations.

The methodology for RoW calculation revolves around several key factors such as the configuration of towers (whether single or double-circuit), the type of conductors, and environmental considerations like wind velocity and terrain type. The report provides specific data tables detailing the RoW requirements for different conductor types and tower designs across various voltage levels, including the use of Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced (ACSR) and HTLS conductors like ACSS and GAP. This approach allows for a reduction in land use by decreasing the width of the RoW needed for transmission lines, offering greater flexibility, especially in urban and forested areas.

Meetings held by the committee discussed various technical options and proposed a uniform formula for RoW calculation that could be adopted by different utilities. For example, KPTCL suggested that utilities calculate RoW based on technical parameters rather than specifying exact values for each scenario. However, it was noted that different utilities might face challenges due to varying tower designs and local conditions. As a result, the committee recommended a uniform approach to ensure smoother implementation across the country.

The report also emphasizes that using monopole towers, which have a much smaller footprint than traditional lattice towers, can significantly reduce RoW width, making them ideal for urban environments where space is limited. HTLS conductors, known for their ability to operate at higher temperatures and reduced sag, further contribute to optimizing RoW by allowing for narrower corridors.

One of the challenges mentioned is the complexity of calculating RoW across different terrains, as this requires factoring in swing angles, conductor sag, and horizontal and vertical clearances. The report includes detailed tables showcasing RoW values for different configurations and conductor types, covering voltage levels from 66 kV to 765 kV.

In conclusion, the committee’s report underscores the importance of adopting advanced technological options like monopole towers and HTLS conductors to reduce the RoW required for transmission lines. By implementing these technologies, utilities can reduce environmental impacts, minimize land acquisition, and streamline the process of laying transmission lines in densely populated or environmentally sensitive areas​.