Overview of the underground 34.5 kV HTS power cable program in albany, NY

A team consisting of SuperPower, Inc. (HTS systems manufacturer), The BOC Group (global industrial gases company), Sumitomo Electric Industries (cable manufacturer), and Niagara Mohawk (electric utility) is developing a 34.5 kV HTS cable for installation in the distribution network in downtown Albany, NY. Energization is projected for the winter of 2005. The cable will be rated for 800 Arms, with all three electrical phases in one cryostat. The 350 m long cable will be pulled through a duct that includes a 90° bend. A field installed underground cable joint will allow for the replacement of a 30 m section of the original first generation HTS cable with a section manufactured utilizing second generation superconductor, in 2006. This paper will summarize the progress made to date and outline future development work.