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DOE OSTI · 3366069

Advanced Transmission Technologies – GETs and HPCs Session 2: Advanced Power Flow Control and Transmission Topology Optimization

Culler, Megan Jordan [Idaho National Laboratory] (ORCID:0000000331297823)·Tylecote, Alex [Subcontractor]
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Abstract

The INL TADA GETs Cohort Session 2, held on November 7, 2025, conducted in collaboration with ScottMadden, focused on two core Advanced Transmission Technologies (ATTs): Advanced Power Flow Control (APFC) and Transmission Topology Optimization (TTO). These technologies are pivotal in enhancing grid flexibility, reliability, and cybersecurity resilience. APFC, particularly through modular FACTS devices like Modular Static Synchronous Series Compensators (M-SSSCs), enables dynamic voltage injection to reroute power flows. The session highlighted the deployment benefits of APFC, such as rapid installation, minimal civil works, and re-deployability. Regulatory drivers like FERC Order 2023 mandate the inclusion of Grid-Enhancing Technologies (GETs) in interconnection studies. Case studies from Central Hudson, CAISO, and National Grid (UK) demonstrated APFC’s effectiveness in congestion relief and cost savings. The session also addressed cybersecurity concerns, including firmware vulnerabilities, SCADA integration risks, and supply chain dependencies. Participants engaged in interactive exercises to rank cybersecurity and supply chain risks, emphasizing the need for robust digital assurance strategies. TTO involves software-based reconfiguration of transmission networks to optimize power flow without new infrastructure. The session showcased its operational value, with examples from SPP, PJM, and MISO showing significant congestion cost reductions. Cybersecurity vulnerabilities were discussed, particularly in API security and software supply chains, referencing incidents like SolarWinds and attacks on Danish utilities. Digital assurance exercises explored worst-case scenarios, attack paths, and mitigation responsibilities between vendors and utilities. Reliability challenges such as algorithm stability, vendor dependency, and operator trust were also examined. Cross-cutting themes emphasized the importance of digital assurance tools, including Software Bills of Materials (SBOMs) and hardware-in-loop testing. Human performance, training, and operational confidence were identified as critical enablers of technology adoption. The session concluded with a preview of Session 3, which will focus on High Performance Conductors (HPCs) and risk-based cybersecurity tools. Session 2 of 3.

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24 - POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION29 - ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY AND ECONOMY99 - GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUSAdvanced Power Flow ControlAdvanced Transmission Technologies (ATTs)Cybersecurity in transmission systemsDigital assurance (utilities)Digital Assurance Tools & Risk ApproachesDynamic Line RatingsDynamic Line Ratings (DLRs)Grid-Enhancing Technologies (GETs)High Performance Conductors (HPCs)Operator training and human performanceReliability and resilience (electric grid)Secure-by-design principlesSupply chain risk management (energy sector)Supply chain transparency (energy technologies)TADA GETs CohortTransmission Topology OptimizationTransmission topology optimization (TTO)

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Culler, Megan Jordan [Idaho National Laboratory] (ORCID:0000000331297823), Tylecote, Alex [Subcontractor]. 2025-11-07. Advanced Transmission Technologies – GETs and HPCs Session 2: Advanced Power Flow Control and Transmission Topology Optimization. https://www.osti.gov/biblio/3366069

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