Italian Firm’s Cables Touted by Nature

Why this is here: The superconducting cables could multiply liquid hydrogen production by 4.8 times compared to conventional solutions, according to simulations conducted on real data from all Chinese provinces.

Scientists at the University of Cambridge and Chinese Institutes published research in Nature Communications Sustainability promoting magnesium diboride (MgB₂) superconducting cables. The study suggests these cables offer an optimal solution for transmitting renewable energy and hydrogen over long distances. ASG Superconductors, a company in Genoa, Italy, manufactures the MgB₂ technology and reports early interest from both the scientific community and the market.

The research indicates the system can simultaneously transmit electricity and liquid hydrogen on a continental scale, potentially eliminating grid losses. Simulations using real data from Chinese provinces suggest the system could double renewable energy use and increase liquid hydrogen production nearly fivefold without needing additional infrastructure. Currently, intermittent renewable sources and their distant locations pose challenges for energy distribution.

Researchers compared MgB₂ to other superconducting materials—BSCCO and YBCO—finding it more cost-effective overall. ASG Superconductors notes that MgB₂ does not require “rare earth” elements, easing supply chain concerns and potentially allowing for a fully Italian supply chain. Further research will explore scaling the technology for wider implementation.