765kV Transmission for Future Grid: Engineering Fundamentals, Operating

Abstract As North America plans for growing electricity demand, large-load development, electrification, evolving generation resources, and increasing regional power transfers, what role can extra-high-voltage backbone transmission play in the future grid? This presentation explores that question through the engineering fundamentals and operating experience of 765-kV transmission. Using the AEP 765-kV system as an engineering reference, the lecture examines line loadability and surge impedance loading, bulk-power transfer capability, right-of-way efficiency, reactive power and voltage control, equipment and switching considerations, contingency performance, and system integration. The discussion then connects these established EHV principles and operating lessons with today's regional transmission planning, including recent 765-kV developments in MISO, ERCOT, and PJM. Rather than presenting 765 kV as a universal solution, the lecture considers when higher-voltage backbone transmission becomes a compelling alternative as lower-voltage systems encounter practical thermal, voltage, stability, and corridor constraints. Designed for practicing engineers, planners, researchers, faculty, and students, the presentation bridges proven EHV engineering with the challenges of planning the next generation of transmission infrastructure. Speaker Biography Dr. Tapan Manna is a Senior Technical Director at WSP USA, with more than 30 years of experience in the power industry and academia. His professional background includes technical leadership and engineering roles with Burns & McDonnell, URS, now AECOM, Black & Veatch, Tennessee Tech University, CESC Ltd, and WBPDCL. Dr. Manna received his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Tennessee Tech University in 2006. His technical expertise includes power systems, high-voltage and extra-high-voltage power apparatus, HVDC and FACTS applications, 765-kV transmission and substation systems, grounding, lightning transients, geomagnetic disturbances, harmonics, and electromagnetic pulse effects. He is a licensed Professional Engineer, Project Management Professional, Chartered Engineer, Member of CIGRE, and Senior Member of IEEE. He has delivered more than 70 technical presentations on transmission and distribution applications, contributed to more than 20 IEEE PES and CIGRE working groups, and authored numerous technical papers, articles, and standard-related publications. His professional contributions have been recognized through several technical honors, including the 2019 Keith W. Jeffers Technical Excellence Award and the 2023 Blue Quill Hall of Fame Award from Burns & McDonnell, and the 2025 CIGRE Attwood Associate Award from the U.S. National Committee of CIGRE.