The U.S. Department of Energy defines Smart Grid as “an electrical grid that uses computers and other technology to gather and act on information, such as information about the behaviors of suppliers and consumers, in an automated fashion to improve the efficiency, reliability, economics, and sustainability of the production and distribution of electricity.”
While most of us immediately think about new meters attached to our homes and appliances that know when to turn on and off, if you read the above definition carefully, it clearly says “…uses computers and other technology.” Therefore, the technology that carries the electrons seems to be relevant – especially when it is as smart and efficient as the ACCC Conductor.
CTC Global’s ACCC® Conductor uses a high-strength, light-weight carbon fiber core with a very low coefficient of thermal expansion. This prevents the wires from sagging under heavy electrical load conditions which allows it to carry about twice the current of a conventional steel reinforced conductor of the same diameter and weight. Another major benefit is the fact that the ACCC Conductor’s light-weight core allows it to use nearly 30 percent more conductive aluminum without a weight penalty. The added aluminum content serves to reduce electrical resistance and line losses.
Reduced line losses serve to reduce fuel consumption and associated CO2 (and other) emissions. This can not only reduce the cost of delivered power, but it can also help the environment in a big way.
CTC Global’s ACCC® Conductor is helping deliver more power, more efficiently, and is delivering exactly what the Department of Energy asked for in their Smart Grid criteria.
