Introduction: There are recent developments in VHF (very high frequency) and UHF (ultra high frequency) radio equipment and spectrum plans which may allow non-LoS radio to be used for modern teleprotection. The key is to identify radios with suitable characteristics and compatible spectrum plans.

Objectives: The objectives are:

1.       to have a cost-effective radio system approved for use on the electricity network for teleprotection, in scenarios where the other solutions (optical fibre and microwave radio) are expensive or impractical; and

2.       to fully understand the constraints and limitations of the radio system (e.g. availability and risks, including risk and value analyses) in order to fully inform the policy on where such radio solution can be utilised.

The outcomes will be:

1.        reduced customer connections costs resulting in increase in low carbon generation; and

2.        reduced cost of pilot cable asset replacement for network operators.