Summary
This paper presents a simplistic environmental life cycle analysis (LCA) of overhead transmission lines with particular focus on the metallurgical aspects/ value chain of conductor materials -impacting the carbon footprint and the operating losses. The methodology examines the environmental footprint of transmission infrastructure from raw material extraction through manufacturing, installation, operation, and end-of-life recycling – results will vary considerably based on the source of aluminium and particularly the source of electricity for smelting aluminium. A comparative analysis of traditional Aluminium
Read more Read lessConductor Steel Reinforced (ACSR) round wire conductors versus round wire and compact
All Aluminium Alloy Conductors (AAAC) reveals significant differences in operational efficiency and lifetime carbon emissions – due primarily to the difference in ongoing line losses. The study quantifies the materials involved in transmission line construction
(aluminium, steel, concrete) and their associated greenhouse gas emissions, while also analysing line losses as a critical operational environmental factor. Findings indicate that conductor selection can influence lifetime carbon emissions by 2 to 4 million dollars per year in a 300km line, with potential CO2 equivalent savings of 5-20% through modern conductor technologies. This research provides guidance for transmission line planners, designers, and operators to optimize environmental performance through informed metallurgical choices responsible sourcing and operational strategies.
Additional informations
| Publication type | Session Materials |
|---|---|
| Reference | B2_10346_2026 |
| Publication year | |
| Publisher | CIGRE |
| Country | Australia |
| Study committees | |
| File size | 5 MB |
| Price for non member | 30 € |
| Price for member | 30 € |
Authors
LEE Michael - mjlee Consult, Australia
Keywords
