High temperature low sag (HTLS) technologies as upgrades for overhead transmission systems

This paper addresses the subject of transmission expansion. A relatively new technology, high temperature low sag (HTLS), is considered for overhead transmission. HTLS conductors have high ampacity, but also high cost. The paper outlines the favorable and unfavorable characteristics of HTLS conductors. The portion of the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) system in the state of Arizona is used as a test bed. The summer peak 2012 loading data are used. The case considered is the expected integration of large scale solar generation resources.