PPL, DOE to test advanced conductor tech and distributed acoustic sensing on Montour line

Company and federal speakers said the Montour project will be used to demonstrate emerging transmission technologies, including advanced conductors and distributed acoustic sensing.

"Through this project, we'll be deploying advanced conductor technology and demonstrate distributed acoustic sensing, evaluating new tools to better understand, monitor, and operate the electric grid," Christine Martin said. She said the insights gained would inform future investments and accelerate innovation across the system.

Secretary Chris Wright also highlighted the use of fiber within transmission lines to analyze temperature and wind conditions and determine when lines can safely carry more power. Wright framed that sensing capability as a way to increase capacity without building new corridors when it is safe to do so.

Speakers did not provide vendor names, project performance targets, or test schedules during the announcement; they described the work as a demonstration and learning opportunity for wider deployment of the technologies.