A Socio-Technical Analysis of Dynamic Line Rating Implementation Challenges: Evidence from Literature and Industry

Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) and Dynamic Thermal Rating (DTR) unlock latent capacity in distribution networks without major infrastructure investment, yet large-scale deployment remains limited and its barriers remain poorly understood. This paper presents a two-stage investigation of DLR implementation challenges, applying a Socio-Technical Systems (STS) lens to examine challenges from literature and industry practice. First, a PRISMA-guided systematic review of 70 peer-reviewed studies identified 127 DLR implementation challenges. Second, semi-structured interviews with thirteen specialists from Liander, a Dutch Distribution System Operator (DSO) spanning asset management, operations, protection, and regulatory functions, yielded 35 additional challenges, with themes prioritised through thematic salience analysis. The 162 combined challenges were classified along the TECCO dimensions (Technical, Economic, Compliance, Client/Commercial, Organizational). Technical challenges dominate the combined set (52%), concentrated on sensing accuracy, thermal modelling, and data quality, but the interviews revealed a markedly different pattern: Operational Readiness, encompassing control-system compatibility, workflow standardisation, and grid observability, emerged as the most broadly salient barrier, alongside governance fragmentation and regulatory ambiguity. Integrating literature- and practice-derived challenges, this study develops a DLR Challenges View, a transferable diagnostic framework enabling DSOs, regulators, and researchers to identify implementation gaps, prioritise interventions, and coordinate actions across technical and organisational dimensions.