France Launches €7.3 Million Superconducting Submarine Cable Project, Testing in 2028

en.Wedoany.com Reported - A consortium of leading European companies and research institutions has officially launched the SupraMarine innovation project, aiming to achieve efficient power transmission between offshore wind farms and the mainland using superconducting systems.

The project plans to study and validate high-temperature superconducting (HTS) cables cooled by liquid nitrogen for electrical interconnection between offshore wind farms and the coastline. The demonstration project will develop a high-voltage alternating current (HVAC) superconducting power transmission system capable of delivering electricity with near-zero energy loss.

The consortium positions the HVAC superconducting solution as a way to enhance the competitiveness of offshore wind farms located far from the coast compared to direct current connection solutions. This technology aims to simplify certain grid connections and support the development of Europe's superconducting industrial sector, with most required materials sourced from Europe.

Within the consortium's division of work, Air Liquide is responsible for supplying Turbo-Brayton cryogenic equipment, conducting thermal performance studies, and overseeing cryogenic operations. CentraleSupélec (GeePs) will provide experimental platforms and conduct doctoral research to address scientific challenges. ITP Interpipe is tasked with designing the inner tube cryostat housing for insulated rigid pipes. Nexans will develop HVAC superconducting cables, joints, and terminations. RTE will provide insights from a grid operator's perspective on practical integration requirements.

Testing for the demonstration project is scheduled for 2028. The project has received €7.3 million in funding from the France 2030 plan, managed by the French state through ADEME.