What is superconducting magnetic energy storage?

Another emerging technology, Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage (SMES), shows promise in advancing energy storage. SMES could revolutionize how we transfer and store electrical energy. This article explores SMES technology to identify what it is, how it works, how it can be used, and how it compares to other energy storage technologies.

How does energy storage work?

Energy generation and storage infrastructure must also grow. Energy storage methodologies like pumped hydroelectric, batteries, capacitor banks, and flywheels are currently used at a grid level to store energy. Each technology has varying benefits and restrictions related to capacity, speed, efficiency, and cost.

How does a superconducting wire work?

The superconducting wire is precisely wound in a toroidal or solenoid geometry, like other common induction devices, to generate the storage magnetic field. As the amount of energy that needs to be stored by the SMES system grows, so must the size and amount of superconducting wire.

How does a SMES system store electrical energy?

However, SMES systems store electrical energy in the form of a magnetic field via the flow of DC in a coil. This coil is comprised of a superconducting material with zero electrical resistance, making the creation of the magnetic field perfectly efficient.

Where will pivot power's new energy storage system go?

The system is the first to go live as part of Pivot Power’s plans to deploy up to 40 similar sites throughout the UK. The 50MW lithium-ion battery energy storage system will be directly connected to National Grid’s high-voltage transmission system at the Cowley substation on the outskirts of Oxford.

Will SMEs be used in energy storage applications?

While SMES offers an incredibly unique advantage over other energy storage applications and is truly state-of-the-art technology, SMES is unlikely to be widely adopted in most energy storage applications in the near future. Currently, superconducting materials are limited in their capabilities and supply.