Taking the measure of transmission flows

The increasing importance of power transmission systems and the difficulty of measuring or calculating loop flows accurately are pointed out. Results of a pair of studies of available and potential methods of measuring transmission system use and accounting better for power transfers on utility systems are discussed. The essential findings are that, with minor modification to control center software, power transfers could be tracked and tabulated online, automatically, every hour or even more frequently. Where power transfers can be measured, an opportunity exists for utilities to gain additional earnings and add to their profitability. Areas for further research are identified.<>