Transmission line EMF mitigation: managing the uncertainty

Transmission and distribution utilities are still investigating ways in which they can reduce public fear of adverse health effects from exposure to magnetic fields. Responding to utilities´ need in this area, a comprehensive effort has been initiated to provide utilities with the tool they need to develop their own strategies for meeting EMF abatement goals in the most cost-effective manner. In order to define how well potential solutions can satisfy utility problems, a list of prioritized criteria used in utility decision making was developed. The criteria were grouped into four major categories: technical performance; cost; environmental issues; and risks. A multi-attribute analysis can help policy makers identify least-cost mitigation strategies from a global perspective.