Superconducting power transmission systems-the past and possibly the future

Abstract

From the late 1960s until the mid 1980s many projects conducted research on superconducting power transmission systems. The culmination was the testing of a prototype system rated for 1000 MVA-a power level suitable for initial trials in a utility system. The specific design adopted for each development produced differing requirements for the conductor, dielectric insulation, cooling system and the cryogenic enclosure. Similar constraints apply to a design based on the use of high-Tc superconductors. If superconducting systems are to become a commercial reality they must fill a technical niche in the overall power delivery system and be economically competitive with conventional equipment. A detailed cost estimate for an 800 MVA superconducting power transmission system indicates the priorities that must be given in a research and development programme so that the most expensive components can be developed to achieve lower costs and at the same time improve the operational performance.