CPE2015 / Special Session 01

High Temperature Superconducting Technologies for Smart Grids

Scope:
Electrical energy system transition towards Smart Grids paradigm implies developments and improvements at several levels, as integration of distributed generation, namely from renewable sources; security and quality of supply; energy storage and efficient transmission; alongside with an increasing demand in energy efficiency. For several of these topics, high temperature superconductivity (HTS) based technologies provide mature and even commercial solutions. Nevertheless, utilities are still averse to adopting these technologies, but the unstoppable trend of power sector modernization and paradigm shift posed by Smart Grids concept presents an opportunity (and a challenge) for HTS devices, especially when a bottom-up approach is envisaged.
This Special Session aims to bring together superconductivity R&D players and power sector community, in order to disseminate applications, benefits and maturity of these technologies; illustrate demonstration projects and discuss opportunities for further developments.
Prospective contributions should focus on one sole HTS application, outlining the addressed problem and comparing it with possible conventional solutions. Papers should provide an overall description of the proposed system, emphasizing particular advantages of superconductivity. Major technological achievements should be demonstrated by means of e.g. live installations, prototypes, field testing or standardization. Challenges and scientific/technical limitations that still need to be addressed should also be outlined.
 
Contributions to the session address but are not limited to:
  • Alternative energy and distributed systems 
  • Security of transmission and distribution
  • Energy storage
  • Power quality
  • Electrical machines (motors, generators, transformers)
Special Session Organizers (names and contact emails):
João Murta-Pina (jmmp@fct.unl.pt, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal)
Antonio Morandi (antonio.morandi@unibo.it , University of Bologna, Italy)
Alfredo Álvarez (aalvarez@unex.es, University of Extremadura, Spain)