LIGHTNING PERFORMANCE
ON OVERHEAD LINES
Data-driven studies and mitigation strategies designed to improve transmission line reliability and reduce lightning-related outages.
PURPOSE
Lightning is one of the leading causes of transmission line outages.
Accurate assessment requires reliable lightning data, realistic line modeling, statistical analysis, and practical mitigation strategies.
Within lightning performance, we are the only consultancy that owns the entire lightning-performance problem end-to-end — from raw lightning data, to simulation and system studies, to the application of optimized mitigation methods such as Line Surge Arresters, backed by our specialized tools Sigma SLP and I3CM LLS.
A PROVEN THREE-STEP STRATEGY FOR RELIABILITY
1
Lightning Data Analysis
Transforming lightning data into actionable insights.
2
Lightning Studies
Understanding lightning performance through simulation and statistical analysis.
3
Mitigation Methods
Applying optimized solutions to improve reliability.
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2
LIGHTNING STUDIES
Model. Simulate. Optimize.
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Probabilistic lightning analysis & performance evaluation as per latest applicable reference such as CIGRE TB 063 and 839.
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Accurate modeling of structures & systems
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Tower-to-tower parameters & sensitivity analysis
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Optimization & assessment of mitigation methods
3
MITIGATION METHODS
Implement. Protect. Perform.
We develop optimized mitigation strategies based on lightning risk, system conditions, and performance objectives to improve reliability and ensure standards-aligned solutions.
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Line Surge Arrester (LSA) strategy and deployment
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Grounding system improvements
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Shield wire optimization
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Insulation coordination and upgrades
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Reliability improvement
WHY EFFECTIVE LIGHTNING PERFORMANCE MATTERS
Effective lightning performance goes beyond reducing outages. It helps utilities understand operational risks, prioritize mitigation strategies, and make informed investment decisions.
LIGHTNING VS. THE GRID
1.4 BILLION
lightning strikes worldwide every year
~70%
of strikes hit land, where transmission lines are located
$1B+
annual lightning-related outage cost in the U.S.
>50%
of power disturbances in high-lightning regions are caused by lightning
COMMON ISSUES BEHIND LIGHTNING OUTAGES
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The strike itself — frequency & severity
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High tower-footing resistance
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Inadequate or failed shielding
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Insufficient insulation strength
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Aging & degradation over time
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Rebuild/refurb choices that backfire
THE COSTS UTILITIES FACE
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Financial Penalties & Revenue Loss
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Safety Risks for Workers & the Public
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Rising Maintenance & Repair Costs
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Service Disruptions & Unhappy Customers
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Overall Reduced Reliability
→ These costs add up every year.
JUSTIFY THE INVESTMENT AND DEMONSTRATE ECONOMIC FEASIBILITY
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Cost of outages today
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Evaluate Mitigation Options
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Calculate Avoided Outages
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Demonstrate Financial Return
WHO WE SUPPORT
Manufacturers
Guidance on standards, testing requirements, and performance evaluation.
EPC Contractors
Support during design, procurement, testing, and commissioning.
Power Utilities
Support for transmission assets and outage reduction.
Engineering Companies
Independent expertise for studies, specifications, and project reviews.
