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Improvement of Nat Efficiency by Superconducting current limiter for 110kV (INES-110)
Start date: Nov 15, 2006, End date: Oct 15, 2009 PROJECT  FINISHED 

Background One way of reducing greenhouse gas emissions produced by the energy sector would be to minimise energy losses in the distribution systems. A transformer including a switchgear is currently used to couple two 110 kV network sub zones. These transformers lead to energy losses and contain hazardous oils. Objectives The INES-110 project aimed to demonstrate a “Superconducting Fault/Current Limiter” (SCFCL) prototype for the European high-voltage grids (90-123 kV) and medium voltage grids (10-30kV), as an intermediate step. It was expected that the successful introduction of the SCFCL for the entire European grid would mean savings of an estimated 200 000-300 000 tonnes/yr of CO2 emissions. Results The project experienced serious technical problems – the devices used were unable to withstand the forces during operation - and was therefore unable to reach its aims. As a consequence, no Layman’s Report was compiled; no after-LIFE communication plan was produced; and no other communication products were published. Although the beneficiary came up with a feasible alternative design, the amount of necessary development work was too high to be done within the project period. This newly-developed solution featuring superconductor elements with parallel and serial connections shows promise and suggests that the knowledge gained by the LIFE project may be put to good use in future.
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