Workshop: Superconducting DC Transmission and Distribution

Date: Wednesday, February 25

Time: 8:30 AM - 5:45 PM

Location: NW17-218

Sponsor: MIT Plasma Science and Fusion Center and the MIT Energy Initiative

Agenda (pdf)

The large-scale use of superconductivity and cryogenics can have substantial impact on the energy systems in the US and around the world. In particular, the use of superconductivity can help minimize energy lost in the transmission and distribution (T&D) of electricity. By using superconducting and cryogenic technologies it will be possible to increase the cost effectiveness, efficiency, and capacity of the power grid and it will greatly impact our present portfolio of power sources. It may also be especially needed for large-scale implementation of renewable sources, such as wind, solar photovoltaic power, and ocean wave power.

Topic

This workshop will focus on DC applications of superconductors for transmission and distribution systems including:

Development of High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) cables for high power DC transmission, including experimental results on HTS DC cables
Summary of operating experience using HTS AC cables connected to the grid
Development of new applications such as Fault Current Limiters
Impact of DC T&D on power systems operation and integration with the Smart Grid
Present use of DC for long distance, high power transmission and local use in special facilities such as data centers and critical financial system enterprises.
Means for reducing cable and system costs and optimizing performance

There will be time for participant discussion on topics such as:

Markets of DC applications and their size
Economic prospects for HTS DC applications
Technical performance and operating issues of HTS for DC T&D.

For further information contact:

Dr. Joseph V. Minervini

Division Head, Technology and Engineering

Plasma Science and Fusion Center

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

77 Massachusetts Avenue, NW22-129

Cambridge, MA 02139 USA

Tel: 617-253-5503

Fax: 617-253-0807

Email: minervini@psfc.mit.edu

Web: http://www.psfc.mit.edu