Improving power delivery through the application of superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES)

This paper summarizes the results of a recent study to re-examine the potential applications and benefits of superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) to improve transmission system performance. The study addresses multiple benefits that SMES can provide to increase power transfer capability, voltage support, system stabilization, spinning reserve, underfrequency load shedding reduction, load leveling and other benefits. This study examined previous studies that were conducted by various agencies, and utilities. In addition a new cost/benefit model is presented to provide a gauge for determining the return expected by potential investors in a deregulated utility environment.