Introduction:

Embarking on a journey through the intricate web of electricity transmission, we uncover the tales of power lines that connect our world. From the towering structures of overhead transmission to the hidden marvels beneath our feet in underground systems, let’s explore the electrifying realm of energy distribution. This blog seeks to unravel the benefits, challenges, and fascinating stories associated with both underground and overhead transmission, all from the perspective of the everyday citizen.

Overhead Transmission:

The Dance of Giants:

In the realm of overhead transmission, colossal towers stand as guardians of the energy highways. These structures, often reaching majestic heights, carry the lifeblood of power across vast landscapes. A testament to engineering prowess, they are the giants that silhouette against the horizon.

Benefits of Overhead Transmission Lines:

• Cost-Effectiveness:

The cost efficiency of erecting overhead lines has allowed for the creation of extensive power grids, ensuring electricity reaches even the most remote corners.

Also, overhead lines are generally easier to access for routine maintenance and repairs. Technicians can quickly identify and address issues, leading to shorter downtimes and efficient restoration of service.

• Quick Deployment and Expansion:

Constructing overhead transmission lines is often faster compared to underground alternatives. This speed in deployment is crucial for meeting the growing demand for electricity and for adapting to changing energy needs.

Also, Overhead lines can easily accommodate changes in demand. They provide flexibility in rerouting power to different areas based on seasonal variations or unexpected events & suitable for diverse geographic and environmental conditions.

• Reduction in Land Use Disputes:

Unlike underground transmission, which may require significant land excavation, overhead lines can help minimize disputes related to land use and property rights. This can expedite the approval and construction process.

• Compatibility with Renewable Energy Integration:

Overhead lines are well-suited for transmitting power over long distances, making them compatible with large-scale renewable energy projects, such as wind farms and solar installations located in remote areas.

Challenges of Overhead Transmission Line:

• Weather-Related Risks:

Overhead lines are exposed to the elements and can be susceptible to damage from severe weather conditions such as storms, high winds, lightning, and ice accumulation. This exposure increases the risk of service interruptions and requires robust design and maintenance strategies.

• Electromagnetic Fields (EMF):

Overhead lines can generate electromagnetic fields, and concerns have been raised about potential health effects associated with prolonged exposure to these fields. While scientific research has not conclusively established adverse health effects, public perception and concern can be significant challenges.

• Wildlife Interactions:

Overhead lines can pose a threat to wildlife, especially birds. Birds may collide with power lines, leading to fatalities. Mitigation measures, such as bird diverters and perch deterrents, are implemented to reduce these interactions.

• Aesthetic Impact:

The visual impact of overhead transmission lines on landscapes, residential areas, and scenic views can be a significant challenge. Communities often raise concerns about the aesthetic degradation caused by the presence of tall transmission towers and power lines.

(Observe the main markets and old city areas)

Underground Transmission Line:

The Subterranean Symphony:

Beneath our feet lies another chapter in the energy saga, where power flows through a network hidden from plain view. Underground transmission, a ballet of cables beneath city streets, offers an alternative that prioritizes aesthetics and urban planning.

Benefits of Underground cable transmission as follows:

• Reduced Environmental Impact & Enhanced Reliability:

Underground transmission reduces disruption to ecosystems and wildlife. The absence of tall towers and overhead lines minimizes interference with migratory paths of birds and reduces the impact on local flora and fauna.

Underground cables are less susceptible to weather-related disruptions, such as storms, high winds, and lightning. They are protected from external elements, leading to increased reliability and a lower risk of service interruptions.

• Less Space & More Safety:

Underground transmission lines do not require large clearances or rights-of-way, making them suitable for densely populated urban areas where space is limited. This can reduce the need for land acquisition and minimize land use conflicts.

Underground cables eliminate the risk of accidental contact with power lines, enhancing safety for both the public and maintenance personnel. This is particularly important in areas with high pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

• Reduced Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) & Improved Transmission Efficiency:

Underground cables generate lower electromagnetic fields compared to overhead lines. This can address concerns about potential health effects associated with prolonged exposure to EMF.

Underground cables experience lower transmission losses compared to overhead lines. This efficiency improvement can lead to energy savings and a more economical use of electricity.

• Longer Lifespan & Secure Infrastructure:

Underground cables are typically well-protected from external elements, resulting in a longer lifespan compared to overhead lines. This can lead to lower maintenance costs and increased operational longevity.

Underground cables are less vulnerable to vandalism and theft, providing a more secure infrastructure. This is advantageous in areas where safeguarding against malicious activities is a priority.

• Flexibility in Urban Planning:

Underground transmission allows for greater flexibility in urban planning, as it enables the placement of power lines beneath streets and sidewalks without altering the visual landscape. This is particularly beneficial in the development of smart cities.

Challenges of Underground transmission cabling are as follows:

• High Installation & Maintenance Costs, also Longer Installation Timelines:

The initial cost of installing underground cables is significantly higher. Excavation, trenching, and cable laying require specialized equipment and skilled labour, contributing to the overall expense.

Accessing underground cables for routine maintenance, inspection, and repairs can be challenging. This complexity can lead to increased downtime and higher costs when addressing faults or conducting upgrades.

Installing underground cables is a time-consuming process compared to the relatively faster deployment of overhead lines. The longer installation timelines can impact project schedules and time-to-market for new energy infrastructure.

• Difficulty in Fault Detection & Extended Downtime for Repairs:

Locating and diagnosing faults in underground cables is more challenging compared to overhead lines. Advanced technologies such as cable fault location systems are required to pinpoint issues accurately.

Repairing faults in underground cables often involves time-consuming excavation and cable splicing processes. This extended downtime can be a significant drawback in terms of service continuity.

• Limited Transmission Capacity & Heat Dissipation Challenges:

Underground cables may have limitations in terms of power transmission capacity compared to high-voltage overhead lines. This can impact their suitability for transmitting large amounts of electricity over long distances.

Underground cables can experience heat dissipation challenges due to the limited ability to dissipate heat into the surrounding soil. This can affect the overall thermal performance of the cables.

• Compatibility with Other Utilities, Technological Advancements & Limited Flexibility in Urban Retrofits :

Underground cables share the subsurface space with various utilities such as water and gas pipelines. Coordination and planning are crucial to prevent conflicts and ensure the integrity of all utilities.

Rapid advancements in cable technologies can result in obsolescence (पुराना हो जाना), making it challenging to upgrade or replace underground cables without significant disruption.

Retrofitting existing urban areas with underground cables can be logistically challenging due to the presence of buildings, utilities, and infrastructure. This limits the flexibility of implementing underground transmission in established urban environments.

Conclusion:

As we traverse the landscapes shaped by overhead giants and delve into the hidden realms of underground wonders, it becomes clear that the world of electricity transmission is both complex and awe-inspiring. By embracing innovation, considering the common man’s perspective, we pave the way for an electrifying future where power lines seamlessly blend with the tapestry of our lives.

Bonus Point: –

Smart Grid Wonders:

A smart grid network is an advanced electricity distribution system that leverages digital technology, communication, and automation to improve the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of the electrical grid. It came into existence to address the limitations of traditional grids and to meet the evolving demands of modern energy systems.

We will know the smart grid in detail in coming blogs, so stay tuned this site.