Systems and methods for implementing line overload control via providing distributed series impedance are disclosed. One system, amongst others, comprises at least one distributed series reactor (DSR). Each DSR comprises a single turn transformer (SST) comprising two split-core sections (132), a winding (120), and an air-gap (138), the air-gap designed such that a magnetizing inductance is produced when the two split-core sections (132) are clamped around a conductor (108). Each DSR further comprises a contact switch (122) that short circuits the winding when the contact switch (122) is in a closed condition, a power supply (128) that derives power from conductor line current, and a controller (130) configured to open the contact switch when the conductor line current reaches a predetermined value, thus causing insertion of the magnetizing inductance into the conductor. The controller (130) may be further configured to close the contact switch (122) when the conductor line current drops below the predetermined value.