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Transmission and distribution: from Stanley's early experiments to solid-state HVDC

Journal Article · · Electr. Forum; (United States)
OSTI ID:6290011
The developmental history of power transmission and distribution is followed. Economics, energy conservation, international and domestic politics, and environmental concerns have all changed the utility business by slowing electrical growth. Factors such as fuel shortages, changing rate structures, the recent recession, and legislative delays have slowed demand for equipment orders, but General Electric has stepped up its effort to improve efficiency and reliability, and to reduce costs. Major equipment advances developed by GE are described. Of special interest is participation in many facets of automated distribution; systems developed include PROBE (Power Resource Optimization by Electronics) program, AMRAC (Automatic Meter Reading and Control) load management system, and the IR-70, a multi-rate, programmable time-of-day watthour meter. Advanced transmission research focuses on high voltage direct current applications. General Electric has installed 4 solid-state HVDC transmission systems: Eel River (converter installation); Tri-State David A. Hamil Tie, permanent link between eastern and western U.S. power grids; BC Hydro-Stage IV, underwater connection near Vancouver; and Square Butte, power generated near lignite fields of Center, ND is sent via dc transmission to Duluth, Minnesota. (MCW)
OSTI ID:
6290011
Journal Information:
Electr. Forum; (United States), Journal Name: Electr. Forum; (United States) Vol. 4:3; ISSN ELFOD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English