AbstractA finite elements‐based Method of Lines is used to calculate static capacitances for microstrip line structures with layered substrates of arbitrary permittivity tensor. The problem is solved by discretizing the associated static equations in one coordinate variable using finite elements, and obtaining an analytical solution with respect to the remaining variable. Proper boundary and transition conditions are imposed. To validate the solution, comparison is made with results derived from other methods. A significant increase in numerical efficiency afforded by the presented method, relative to the conventional, fully discrete, finite element solution, is demonstrated quantitativel