Gigawatts Energy Limited is leveraging the exceptional capabilities of the ACCC® Conductor to redefine energy transmission across a broad spectrum of projects. Designed for versatility, this conductor combines a high-strength, lightweight, and thermally stable composite core with a significant increase in aluminum content—about 28% more than traditional conductors—without any increase in diameter or weight. This unique composition makes it suitable for transmission and sub-transmission applications across a wide range of voltages from 11 to 1,100 kV.
Overcoming Grid Limitations
Transmission line capacity is often hampered by various factors including conductor size, thermal limits, safe sag clearances, voltage levels, and environmental conditions. Grid congestion, a common challenge, arises from increased demand, limited generation access, or reliability issues due to both planned and unplanned outages. In the United States alone, these constraints cost utilities and consumers billions annually.
Enhancing Capacity with Ease
The ACCC® Conductor offers a groundbreaking solution by doubling the capacity of existing lines through a simple process: replacing old wires with new ones. This capability not only alleviates grid congestion and enhances reliability but also ensures access to the most cost-effective and cleanest energy sources. By upgrading to ACCC® Conductor, projects can increase capacity and future-proof the grid against expected growth.
Selecting ACCC® for New Projects
When evaluating new line projects, considerations such as life cycle costs, expected load growth, and efficiency benefits often lead to the selection of the ACCC® Conductor over conventional alternatives. Despite its marginally higher initial cost, the long-term savings from reduced transmission losses—which can range from 25 to 40%—significantly outweigh these initial expenditures. The conductor’s enhanced efficiency not only lowers operational costs but also mitigates environmental impact by reducing fuel consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions.
Built for Challenging Environments
With twice the strength of steel core conductors, superior dimensional stability, and exceptional resistance to cyclic load fatigue, the ACCC® Conductor excels in demanding settings such as long span water crossings and mountainous terrains. Additionally, its resistance to corrosion makes it ideal for use in coastal areas, agricultural regions, and industrial environments, where traditional materials quickly deteriorate.
Streamlining Approvals and Enhancing Safety
Utility projects utilizing the ACCC® Conductor often receive expedited approvals under the auspices of “Reliability and Resilience.” The conductor’s ability to maintain higher clearances and resist excessive sag not only supports reliability goals but also reduces the risk of wildfires—a critical consideration in areas prone to such disasters. Its capacity to reroute power during high-risk conditions further enhances its suitability for projects aimed at grid hardening and resilience.
Global Recognition
The ACCC® Conductor’s innovative design and proven effectiveness have been recognized globally, with over 1,250 successful installations in 65 countries. Despite some utilities still adhering to century-old technologies, the progressive adoption of ACCC® Conductors is paving the way for more efficient and resilient power transmission networks worldwide.