As the world shifts away from fossil fuels toward electrification and carbon-neutral energy sources, our energy systems are under immense pressure. We need to move more electricity, over longer distances, with greater reliability and minimal loss. At the same time, we must stabilise grids powered by intermittent sources like wind and solar energy, while helping carbon-intensive industries transition to cleaner alternatives.
Our current infrastructure cannot keep up, and that is where superconductors come in.
Based on current technology, realising Europe’s plans for massive grid expansions would require 37 M tons of copper (Double of the yearly global production). It would waste 5 - 8 % energy/1.000 km and require huge amounts of AC/DC converters and extensive transmission corridors across Europe, importantly, the cost of transmission of renewable energy between regions will overcome cost of energy production by 2030. That is where superconductors come in.
While superconductor technology is complex in nature, the impact is clear: when cooled, superconductors transport electricity with zero resistance – meaning more power can flow with no loss, enabling far greater efficiency than conventional cables. But until now, superconductors have been expensive, difficult to scale, and limited by technical constraints.
The Subracable is the World’s first cost-effective and scalable high-temperature superconductor, transitioning from flat tapes to bundled wires with key enabling properties. It overcomes the inherent weaknesses in conventional cables and flat tape technology and is designed for gigawatt-scale electricity transport, and adaptable in both power transmission and in urban distribution.
Bringing the Subracable to market represents a ground-breaking option allowing for: 90% reduction of energy losses; 99% reduction of copper required; 55% reduction of Levelized Cost of Transmission (LCoT); and using small underground lines rather than extensive overhead lines – leading to lower electricity prices for consumers and reshaped energy landscapes.
Subra is a Danish deep-tech developing revolutionary superconductor solutions for zero-loss power transmission and fusion energy. We are an impact company, that believes in the power of science to shape a future where energy flows without limits – clean, connected, and carbon-free. Founded on a collaborative spirit, we are moving forward together, wiring our world for infinite energy to benefit society and the planet.