The present state of R & D for superconducting transmission in Japan

Abstract The advantages of superconducting cables for large-scale, long-distance power transmission have been widely recognised. However, there is a need for much costly research into the scientific and engineering problems before superconducting cables can be incorporated in the power network. This paper outlines the current state of R & D in Japan on superconducting transmission. The immediate aim is a 10 GW cable that can handle 500 kV ac or ± 200 kV dc.