Is super-conducting magnetic energy storage sustainable?

Super-conducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) system is widely used in power generation systems as a kind of energy storage technology with high power density, no pollution, and quick response. In this paper, we investigate the sustainability, quantitative metrics, feasibility, and application of the SMES system.

What are superconductor materials?

Thus, the number of publications focusing on this topic keeps increasing with the rise of projects and funding. Superconductor materials are being envisaged for Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage (SMES). It is among the most important energy storage systems particularly used in applications allowing to give stability to the electrical grids.

How to design a superconducting system?

The first step is to design a system so that the volume density of stored energy is maximum. A configuration for which the magnetic field inside the system is at all points as close as possible to its maximum value is then required. This value will be determined by the currents circulating in the superconducting materials.

How does a superconducting coil store energy?

This system is among the most important technology that can store energy through the flowing a current in a superconducting coil without resistive losses. The energy is then stored in act direct current (DC) electricity form which is a source of a DC magnetic field.

How does a superconducting coil withstand a large magnetic field?

Over a medium of huge magnetic fields, the integral can be limited without causing a significant error. When the coil is in its superconducting state, no resistance is observed which allow to create a short circuit at its terminals. Thus, the indefinitely storage of the magnetic energy is possible as no decay of the current takes place.

What is superconductivity (SMEs) in Japan?

Currently, a number of these units are operational in Japan. Through SMES, superconductivity provides an alternative to store magnetic energy and power an electrical circuit without energy conversion. These SMES have become a realizable device thanks to approved advancements in superconducting materials and cryogenics.