Superconducting technologies for main power transmission lines and power output systems
摘要
Background: Existing schemes for the output and transmission of large electric energy flows from sources to consumers over long distances entail significant energy losses during transmission, economic costs during the construction of step-up and step-down substations, as well as the alienation of large territories.
Aim: To develop alternative highly efficient technologies for the output of large energy flows and their transmission from remote generation facilities using superconducting cable lines increasing their efficiency, reliability, and environmental friendliness.
Materials and methods: The paper reviews completed, ongoing, and planned Russian and foreign long-distance power transmission projects using high-temperature superconductors (HTSs). A prototype of a generator current lead phase with HTSs has been developed. Experimental studies conducted at the D.V. Efremov Institute of Electrophysical Equipment JSC jointly with the ROSSETI Scientific and Technical Center JSC have confirmed the possibility and feasibility of developing a full-scale HTS project for the Leningrad NPP.
Results: The performed theoretical assessment of general approaches to the development of HTS cable lines and the analysis of the experiment have demonstrated the superconductivity effect appropriate to achieve the transmitted power level of several gigawatts per circuit and simultaneously reduce energy losses to 3%. Calculations have confirmed that the cryogenic cable line system can be indefinitely extended under high-quality cooling ensuring a virtually unlimited length of HTS lines.
Conclusion: The accumulated experience is sufficient to start the implemention of pilot projects using HTS cable lines. However, further research is needed for taking into account technical, infrastructural, and economic factors.