Voltage Upgrading

This section is to present the general information and idea of voltage upgrading as it might be considered as compact overhead power line design in some cases. Voltage upgrading means to increase the operating voltage of an existing overhead power line already in operation. This is normally done in order to increase the transmission capacity of the line, considering that it is also necessary to maintain or enhance the required reliability after years of operation. The chapter revises the issues to be considered in voltage upgrading (electrical issues, mechanical performance, environmental concerns, etc.) covering both AC and DC lines. Also real case studies are included for AC and DC lines, explaining the main challenges and solutions adopted.