[ghouse]

You may be referring to either 1) the real-time line ratings (directionally required by FERC order 881, or 2) technology like the "SmartValve" from Smart Wires which dynamically adjusts impedance to keep conductors within their operating envelope.

Among risks that are managed is ground faults caused by sage (as the line heats, it expands, getting closer to the ground), or 2) annealing which is a permanent expansion of the conductor due to operating too hot for too long. The advanced conductors use composite cores allowing the conductor to carry more current at a higher temperature with reduced risk for annealing.