Dear Reader,
In this edition of In the Loop, we are pleased to present three insightful articles addressing key developments and challenges across the power sector:
- Application of Autonomous Platforms/Robots in Power Cable Operation and Maintenance
- Improving Public Acceptance of High Voltage Substations
- The Potential Roles of Energy Storage in Power Systems
In addition, we also want to highlight several upcoming events:
- A2 Transformer & Reactor Workshop – “Lifecycle of a Transformer”: Running from April 29 – May 1 in Melbourne, the event will showcase how emerging innovations and evolving best practices are reshaping transformer performance and reliability. Hear directly from industry leaders, participate in hands-on workshops, and join a site tour at Wilson Transformer Company. Early Bird registrations are now open, and places are limited. Secure your special Early Bird rate here.
- 2026 Paris Session: Paris Session is CIGRE’s flagship global event. The biennial event will be held August 23 – 28, 2026. Registrations are now open. Following the record attendance in 2024, we recommend that you get in early. To register click here.
- 2027 CIGRE Australia Conferences: After a hugely successful suite of conferences in Adelaide last year, we’re excited to invite you to save the date for the 2027 CIGRE Australia, CIDER27 and SEAPAC27 Conferences. Join us at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre from 17–19 August 2027.
We hope you find this edition informative and valuable, and we look forward to your participation in our upcoming events.
Best regards
Peter McIntyre
Chief Executive Officer
CIGRE Australia
Phil Southwell
Technical Editor
Application Of Autonomous Platforms/Robots In Power Cable Operation And Maintenance
Advancements in socio‑economic development and technology are driving urban power grids to transition from overhead lines to underground cable systems, establishing a new standard for modern city power infrastructure. With this in mind, Task Force B1.93 was established to review how robotic technologies are being used to improve safety and reliability of power cable systems. The Australian member of this Task Force was Samir MD Aris.
Improving Public Acceptance Of High Voltage Substations
As electricity networks expand to support the global energy transition, the construction and upgrading of high voltage substations is unavoidable. While these assets are essential for maintaining reliability and enabling renewable energy, public acceptance has emerged as one of the most significant challenges facing grid operators worldwide. Working Group (WG) C3.15, “Best environmental and socio-economic practices for improving public acceptance of high voltage substations” has addressed this issue and produced Technical Brochure (TB) 965. The Australian member of this WG was James Hart.
The Potential Roles Of Energy Storage In Power Systems
Technical Brochure (TB) 970 prepared by Working Group (WG) C1.51, examines the potential roles of energy storage in modern power systems, particularly in the context of global decarbonisation. As electricity systems transition toward higher shares of wind, solar, and hydro generation, managing intermittency and maintaining reliability become central challenges. TB 970 explores how grid-scale energy storage can balance supply and demand, enhance system stability, and support the reliable integration of renewable energy. The TB provides a useful reference on the current state of energy storage globally. The Australian members of the WG were Jonathan Dennis, Steve Richardson and Phil Southwell.