AltaLink, Alberta’s largest electricity transmission provider, has been selected to receive more than $1.8 million in funding from the Government of Alberta through Emissions Reduction Alberta’s Industrial Transformation Challenge for its Dynamic Line Rating project. The investment will offset a portion of the project cost, supporting affordable transmission for Albertans.
The DLR project uses real-time weather data and sensor technology to calculate transmission line ratings dynamically rather than relying on fixed, conservative estimates. The system will install hardware and weather stations along approximately 113 kilometres of transmission line in southern Alberta, using sensors that measure localized weather conditions to identify real-time capacity. By integrating those real-time calculations with AltaLink’s control system, the technology can increase transmission capacity when weather conditions permit, maximizing the value of existing infrastructure and deferring the need for new transmission lines.
AltaLink anticipates beginning implementation in 2026 and will work with the Alberta Electric System Operator on further evaluation to determine the potential for additional DLR applications across the broader transmission system. Headquartered in Calgary, AltaLink operates more than 13,400 kilometres of transmission lines and approximately 310 substations.
KEY QUOTES:
“Through this project, we are using technology and weather data to increase capacity on the transmission system in real time, maximizing the value of existing infrastructure and helping to defer the need for new transmission lines.”
Gary Hart, President and Chief Executive Officer, AltaLink
“This project will strengthen the electricity system Albertans rely on every day and keep electricity costs affordable. Using the industry-funded TIER program to support practical innovation helps ensure Alberta’s power system continues to meet the needs of a growing province for years to come.”
Grant Hunter, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas, Government of Alberta
