Comparative Economic Analysis of Transmission Lines Adopted for Energy-Saving Conductors Considering Life Cycle Cost

Abstract

Transmission lines serve as pivotal equipment within the power system. Conductors, the primary medium for power transmission and distribution, directly influence the construction cost, operational performance, and long-term benefits of transmission line projects. This study first provides a detailed introduction to the life cycle cost of transmission lines. It utilizes linear regression analysis, the grey model, and the autoregressive integrated moving average model to forecast the electricity sales benefit and quantify the carbon reduction benefits of energy-saving conductors through a methodology. Through the life cycle cost model, we found that operating costs, particularly energy loss costs, dominate the total expenses, accounting for 65% to 66.2%. The JLHA3-425 scheme offers the lowest life cycle cost of 22,891.66 k$. Comparing economic indicators like ENPV, EIRR, and DPP confirmed that the JLHA3-425 medium-strength aluminum alloy stranded wire emerged as the most economically viable option among the evaluated schemes, holding substantial promise for fostering economic and environmental sustainability in electrical power transmission.