Grid Enhancing Technologies (GETs)
Grid enhancing technologies are hardware and software solutions that increase the capacity, flexibility, or visibility of existing transmission assets without constructing entirely new lines. Examples include dynamic line ratings, advanced power flow controllers, topology optimization tools, and modular FACTS devices.
GETs allow operators to unlock latent transfer capability, reroute flows during outages, and accelerate renewable interconnections by addressing congestion with targeted investments. They often integrate sensors, communications, and control algorithms to provide operators with real-time situational awareness.
Regulators are beginning to recognize GETs within transmission planning processes, offering performance-based incentives or requiring that utilities evaluate them before pursuing large capital projects. Deployment requires coordination between planning, operations, and market teams so increased capacity actually translates into additional scheduling headroom.
Pilot programs funded through national infrastructure initiatives often include performance metrics tied to congestion savings, creating data sets that regulators can use to evolve incentive structures and cost-recovery mechanisms.
Technical Details
- •Includes technologies such as dynamic line ratings, power flow controllers, and topology optimization
- •Often deployable within months compared with multi-year transmission builds
- •Requires telemetry, communications, and cybersecurity integration
- •Can defer reconductoring or greenfield projects by increasing existing line utilization
- •Benefit-cost analysis must consider congestion savings, reliability, and market impacts
Why It Matters
GETs reshape where congestion relief can occur first, influencing interconnection sequencing and merchant hedge assumptions. Tera tracks GET deployments, pilot programs, and regulatory proceedings so developers can target regions adopting these tools, while investors gauge which transmission owners are most likely to accelerate capacity with minimal lead time.
Exclusive Market News
Newsletter
Get exclusive market intelligence, data-driven insights, and strategic analysis on global electricity markets. Receive updates on emerging trends, regulatory developments, infrastructure projects, and investment opportunities that impact your energy strategy and decision-making.
