To: Director Transmission
From: Staff Manager
Subject: Recommendation for CTC Global’s ACCC® Conductor
Background
As part of our due diligence in selecting an advanced conductor for upcoming grid upgrade projects, I conducted a detailed assessment of several options, including CTC Global’s ACCC® Conductor and offerings from competitors. This evaluation included performance comparisons using CTC Global’s CCP™ software design tool and consultations with utility engineers from NV Energy, Southern California Edison (SCE), and American Electric Power (AEP) to gain insight into their experiences.
Findings
1. Proven Reliability and Global Expertise
CTC Global’s ACCC Conductor is the most field-tested advanced conductor, with 1,350 projects completed across 67 countries over the past two decades. Unlike newer or less-established alternatives, it is a mature and trusted technology, supported by:
- Specialization: CTC Global focuses exclusively on advanced conductors, delivering unmatched expertise in this area.
- Global Reach: The company operates five core manufacturing facilities, 35 authorized conductor manufacturing partners, and 11 hardware manufacturing partners, ensuring strong supply chain reliability.
- Installation Expertise: Their network of 85 ACCC Master Installers provides hands-on support during deployments, minimizing risks and ensuring project success.
Feedback from NV Energy, SCE, and AEP confirmed positive experiences with ACCC Conductor installations, particularly in addressing capacity and sag challenges in demanding environments.
2. Superior Performance and Innovation
The ACCC Conductor delivers significant advantages in performance, efficiency, and innovation:
- High Thermal Capacity: Its composite core enables continuous operation at temperatures up to 200°C without sag, providing greater ampacity for grid demands.
- Energy Efficiency: By reducing line losses by 25-40%, it lowers operating costs and helps meet carbon reduction goals.
- Unique ACCC InfoCore® System: The embedded optical fiber technology enables real-time verification of core integrity before, during, and after installation, which no competitor currently offers.
Using CTC Global’s CCP™ software, I modeled the performance of the ACCC Conductor under our project-specific conditions, and it consistently outperformed alternatives in terms of capacity, sag performance, and efficiency.
3. Comprehensive Support and Long-Term Value
CTC Global’s support extends throughout the project lifecycle:
- Engineering Assistance: Their team provides tailored technical solutions for both new and retrofit installations.
- Lifecycle Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment may be higher, reduced energy losses, extended service life, and avoided infrastructure costs make the ACCC Conductor the most cost-effective choice long-term.
Discussions with NV Energy, SCE, and AEP confirmed that CTC Global’s support is highly responsive and reliable, ensuring smooth execution even in complex projects.
Recommendation
Based on performance modeling, peer input, and project requirements, CTC Global’s ACCC Conductor is the best choice for our grid upgrade. Its proven reliability, superior efficiency, and robust support infrastructure make it a clear leader over newer, less-tested competitors. I recommend prioritizing CTC Global for this and future advanced conductor needs.
Please let me know if additional details or follow-up discussions are required.
