SuperNode proposes the use of superconducting cables for Eirgrid’s ‘Powering Up Dublin’ project, as stated in their consultation response. The Powering Up Dublin project aims to update and modernise Dublin’s electricity infrastructure to enable Ireland’s decarbonisation goals.
“Dublin’s grid is currently facing congestion challenges due to its aging infrastructure and needs to be upgraded to electrify more and more of the economy and to accommodate more renewables. Superconducting cables can increase the resilience, the reliability and most importantly the capacity of Dublin to decarbonise efficiently with electricity. Superconducting cables can, therefore, future proof Dublin by creating much higher-capacity to meet the growing electricity needs of a Dublin energy system in transition.” According to SuperNode CEO John Fitzgerald.
SuperNode urges Eirgrid to consider the usage of superconductors on each cable project and in the stations. Superconducting cables would fulfil 4 of the 5 project’s stated benefits in ‘Security and reliability of supply, ‘Meet future needs’, ‘Sustainability’ and ‘Economic’.
Many cities facing similar urban congestion problems as Dublin have already implemented superconducting cable systems (Essen, Germany, Seoul, South Korea and Chicago, USA). Superconducting cables have a small footprint and can transfer large amounts of power from one substation to another without the need for transformers, relocation of substations, or deteriorating grid performance. This is particularly advantageous in the urban environment where space is at a premium and the installation and permitting of bulky new infrastructure is extremely costly.
SuperNode is also leading efforts in the superconducting industry to develop long-range, bulk transmission applications capable of carrying GWs in a single cable which can have a huge impact for the connection of offshore wind farms. With Ireland’s potential to provide up to 10% of Europe’s overall power, it is crucial to have an onshore and offshore grid capable of moving the massive amounts of power produced off its shores. The development, demonstration, and deployment of innovative new grid technologies that can carry higher levels of power up to 10GW in a single cable will be critical in the long run.
The implementation of superconducting cables to solve Dublin’s congestion problems would offer the dual benefits of alleviating Dublin’s issues in the short term as well as developing experience, expertise and relationships in what could be a critical technology in the medium to long-term. There is an incredible opportunity for Ireland in the coming green industrial revolution and we must be proactive if we are to full capitalise.
Click here for SuperNode’s full response: SuperNode Response – Eirgrid – Powering Up Dublin