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.