Plain copper is already too expensive for power lines, and this alloy is more expensive than copper alone. Transmission and distribution lines are typically made with aluminum conductors layered over a steel core for mechanical strength:
Aluminum is a worse conductor than copper on a volumetric basis but a better conductor on a mass basis, which is important for overhead lines supporting their own weight against gravity. It also costs significantly less than copper.
My point was that maybe the improved mechanical performance would help with their own weight. I concede that a more expensive, heavier overhead line that could hang for longer distances does not sound good unless costs are dominated by tower construction
philipkglass|10 months ago
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminium-conductor_steel-rein...
Aluminum is a worse conductor than copper on a volumetric basis but a better conductor on a mass basis, which is important for overhead lines supporting their own weight against gravity. It also costs significantly less than copper.
chuzz|10 months ago