Supplemental Projects
View our current supplemental offerings below.
Accelerating Grid Expansion: Effective EMF Communication
As utilities continue to expand and modernize the transmission infrastructure around the world (e.g. 765 kV projects, HVDC, new substations), public concern about the health and safety of living near electrical infrastructure remains a persistent challenge.The primary objective of this project is to equip utilities with robust, science-based tools and framework for engaging the public and regulatory bodies on EMF health issues related to electrical installations.
EMF-RF Training and Knowledge Transfer
Electric grid operators around the world are facing multiple challenges stemming from the goal of a clean energy future and grid infrastructure changes to accommodate electric vehicle growth that require a more flexible and resilient grid. Addressing electric and magnetic fields (EMF) issues is a vital component of expeditious grid expansion since project cost and delays can affect timely implementation of vital new assets. This project will assist funders to address EMF issues using results from the EPRI research program, EPRI expertise, and practical experience.
EMF Characterization and Assessment
Power frequency EMF measurements and evaluations are usually the first steps in an EMF assessment program. Often measurements are needed to address concerns from members of the public, workers who may be near areas of elevated electric or magnetic fields or individuals who have concerns regarding interference with implanted medical devices. As electric companies are challenged with a high loss of staffing and institutional knowledge regarding EMF assessment, some companies may no longer have the resources, equipment, or expertise to conduct these measurements.
Assessment of Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF)/Radio Frequency (RF) Impacts on Local Wildlife
There is a growing need to preserve ecological biodiversity in the wake of climate change, increasing urbanization, and dwindling wildlife habitat. Transmission line easements may be an unrecognized resource that provides wildlife with a contiguous land bridge, connecting distant habitat resources that may otherwise be separated due to urbanization. However, there are often concerns expressed by the public regarding how exposure to power frequency EMF and RF (e.g., 5G) may affect wildlife along ROWs. This issue is becoming more important as utilities are upgrading their infrastructure to accommodate renewable generation sources and changing load patterns.
Radio Frequency Safety Program Assessment
Since its founding in 1972, the EPRI Electric and Magnetic Field and Radio frequency Fields Health Assessment and Safety Program (P60)remains one of a few research programs worldwide that is dedicated to advancing the science and tools for effective management of EMF/RF issues. This project intends to assist funders in addressing RF issues using results from the EPRI research program, EPRI knowledge, and practical experience.
Electric and Magnetic Field (EMF) Engineering Support
The objective of this project is to leverage EPRI vast EMF tools and knowledge to assist Utility’s in conducting EMF engineering investigations. These evaluations may be needed to support grid modernization/expansion projects and/or address specific worker/public EMF concerns.
Electric and Magnetic Field (EMF) Assessment of Submarine Cables
EPRI has developed an EMF assessment framework that provides a structured, transparent approach for evaluating EMF impacts to marine animals. The assessment framework includes an EMF modeling methodology that assesses the cables in the most relevant way, based on their interaction with the marine environment that they are set within. For example, when modeling EMF from HVDC cables; water movement and interaction with the Earth’s geomagnetic field must be considered.
Submarine Cable EMF Characterization
Current research shows a lack of reliable electric field measurements and inconsistencies between measured and modeled magnetic fields, especially for AC and HVDC systems. Factors like cable configuration, burial depth, and ocean currents significantly influence EMF behavior but are often overlooked in standard models.
For more information on these and other projects, contact Phung Tran .