New grid infrastructure is expensive and slow to build — but Neara’s analysis suggests much of the capacity the UK and Ireland needs already exists. The study modelled over 127,000 spans across distribution networks, finding that up to three-quarters are operating below their safe limits.
Key findings:
- At 85°C, approximately 64% of cables show underutilisation
- Some regions have up to 93% untapped capacity
- Dynamic line rating could unlock significant headroom for renewables and electrification without new construction
The study tested power lines at varying temperatures (50°C, 70°C, and 85°C) to determine safe operating limits under real-world conditions. The findings suggest that physics-based line rating could play a significant role in supporting increased energy demand and renewable integration across the region.